Signing online documents can be time-consuming. You may have to open your digital document, change its format, print it, sign it, scan it back into your computer, and reformat it again all before sending it to the recipient.

This is where electronic signature apps — or eSignature apps — come to the rescue. They allow you to sign and send documents in a matter of seconds.

In this blog post, we’ll cover the information you need to understand the benefits of signature apps as well as 20 of the best eSignature tools.

eSignature software makes it easy to collect and store these kinds of signatures, usually by enabling you to put entry forms in your documents. They also add an extra level of security by ensuring signatures can be verified.

Are electronic signatures legally binding?

In a word, yes.

There are many cases in which judges have ruled in favor of the veracity of eSignatures. Whenever there’s consent and intent, which is almost always the case, eSignatures are legally binding.

What is a digital signature?

But what about digital signatures? Are the terms interchangeable?

A digital signature is not the same as an electronic signature. It’s an encrypted “packet” associated with a document.

Digital signature software creates a condensed version of a document — called a hash — which will be encrypted using a key in a signatory certificate. This encrypted “hash” is the signature. To validate the signature, the hash is decrypted with the signatory’s key and compared to the original document.

Many of the signature apps we’ll cover below offer features for both electronic and digital signatures, so you don’t have to pick between the two.

Signature App

Let’s talk about some of the best signature apps available next. Trusted software providers also add an additional level of security by providing authentication and audit logs, among other features.

1. PandaDoc

Award-winning online software PandaDoc is known for its streamlined user interface and ease of use. Its eSignature solution is offered as part of a larger document management tool that includes drag-and-drop form integration, automated workflows, and full audit histories. A number of integrations are also available, including CRM, payment, and file storage apps.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution for the management of contracts and documents, all with a built-in eSignature feature, PandaDoc is worth considering.

Price: Free plan; paid plans starting at $29/user/month

2. HelloSign

HelloSign brings a unique angle to the eSignature market by combining customization, customer service, and flexible and competitive pricing.

HelloSign’s powerful API allows you to embed and fully brand signing options in your documents. The company is also compliant with all major worldwide eSignature laws and offers an array of extensions and integrations, including one with HubSpot.

Pro tip: Send contracts directly from your HubSpot CRM platform and Sales Hub software with HelloSign.

Price: Free for one user/ three documents/ month; paid plans starting at $15/user/month

3. DocuSign

Mobile app: iOS | Android

DocuSign is one of the better-known eSignature platforms on the market. The tool is intuitive and easy-to-use and it integrates with a wide range of third-party tools for increased customizability. Additionally, a suite of APIs allows for custom integrations with your current systems.

DocuSign also places a strong emphasis on security, both for the storage of data and the eSignature process, and has many high-level security certifications in both the U.S. and Europe.

Price: Plans starting at $15/user/month

4. Adobe Sign

Mobile app: iOS | Android

Adobe is a feature-rich eSignature platform that gives you the power to manage signing workflows from any location via any device.

Adobe Sign is known for its breadth of integrations with third-party tools (such as Microsoft, Salesforce, Workday, and more) as well as its emphasis on global compliance. Adobe Sign offers features for both electronic and digital signatures.

Price: Plans start at $14.99/month

5. Docsketch

Mobile app: None, web-based only

Docsketch offers a free plan that includes document tracking, reminders, and flexible document workflows. The tool also includes a way to customize the experience for recipients depending on the type of document they’re signing.

Sales documents can have approval options, while other legal agreements are presented through a helpful guided signing experience. Every document signed with Docsketch receives an audit report that meets or exceeds U.S. and international eSignature law requirements.

Price: Free for one user/month/ three documents; paid plans starting at $10/user/month

6. OneSpan Sign

Mobile app: iOS | Android

OneSpan Sign (formerly eSignLive) works for both small and enterprise businesses that have a need for strong security features. There’s an option for businesses to use the software on their premises or as part of a cloud-based service. Many integrations and APIs are offered, and the software is both mobile and desktop compatible. The tool’s mobile apps are also particularly easy to use.

Price: Contact OneSpan Sign for a quote.

7. SignNow

Mobile app: iOS | Android

SignNow has garnered numerous awards for its simple, mobile-friendly software. It’s a reliable option for small businesses because of the straightforward interface, the extent of its integrations (including a custom API), and its focused set of features.

SignNow’s main USP, however, is its price. At $5/month per user for unlimited document sending and templates, it’s easily the best-priced option on this list. The more feature-rich “Business Premium” plan comes in at only $15/month per user.

SignNow’s apps for Android and iOS are used by over 40% of Fortune 1000 companies, for good reason. If you’re intending to use eSignature software on your phone, you won’t find a better solution.

Price: Plans starting at $8/user/month

8. SignEasy

Mobile app: iOS | Android

SignEasy has a straightforward interface intended to be easy to use (as you may guess based on the tool’s name).

SignEasy’s features allow you to create documents from within the platform or integrate drag-and-drop functionality with a variety of third-party tools. There are also options for self-signing, in-person signing, and remote signing.

Price: Plans starting at $8/user/month

9. RightSignature

Mobile app: None, web-based only

RightSignature is Citrix’s contribution to the eSignature space, and the biggest benefit is the speed at which documents can be sent to clients. RightSignature’s apps and desktop solutions enable users to upload, format, and send documents in only a few clicks. A suite of integrations and an API are also offered.

Price: Plans starting at $12/user/month

10. KeepSolid Sign

Mobile app: None, web-based only

KeepSolid Sign specializes in security. As such, its eSignature software places an emphasis on secure storage of data and the legal verifiability of signatures.

KeepSolid Sign is mobile-compatible and comes with drag-and-drop forms along with a host of integrations. You can also take advantage of the tool’s workspaces where you and your team can easily share documents and collaborate.

Price: Plans starting at $34.99/small team/month

11. Signable

Mobile app: iOS | Android

Signable works on a pay-as-you-go basis (along with monthly options) and caters to many U.K. and Europe-based customers, making it a good option for those who want to ensure their documents follow E.U. laws. If you’re looking for simple eSignature software with access to U.K. support and the flexibility of a pay-as-you-go model, Signable is ideal.

Price: Plans start at $1.50 per envelope

12. GetAccept

Mobile app: iOS | Android

GetAccept allows you to integrate with CRM platforms, like HubSpot, to make the process of record-keeping seamless while your sales reps are building and closing deals. Create signing sequences and add mandatory signing fields to documents to ensure they’re signed in the correct order. The tool also ensures your documents are compliant with all signature laws including eIDAS, ESIGN, and UETA.

Price: Free plan; paid plans starting at $15/user/month

13. Secured Signing

Mobile app: None, web-based

Use Secured Signing to complete and sign online and PDF forms with digital signatures. You can customize document workflows, attach files to email invitations, and enable a Notary Public to notarize your documents remotely. Plus, Secured Signing’s CrimTrac App allows you to run background checks online and paperless.

Price: Free; Contact Secured Signing for a quote on paid plans

14. Contractbook

Mobile app: None, web-based

Create and collaborate on from-scratch contracts using Contractbook’s free templates. Store all your documents in the cloud so everything is organized and GDPR-friendly. Use the data that your documents and contracts contain to automate contract creation and completion as well as your workflows. There are also over 3,000 apps that Contractbook integrates with to improve accuracy, save you time, and provide better analytics.

Price: Plans start at $115/three users/ month

15. Lightico

Mobile app: None, web-based

Lightico is a second-generation, web-based eSignature solution that focuses on high-volume B2C transactions. Their eSignature solution is part of a wider customer experience platform that converts documents into smart forms and helps with tasks such as ID verification and payment collection.

Lightico can easily connect to your CRM, call center agent toolbars, websites, and live chat — as well as other business tools — so you can collaborate seamlessly with your customers and your team.

Price: Contact Lightico for a quote.

16. Formstack Sign

Mobile app: iOS | Android

Formstack provides a flexible electronic software solution that can be used by teams across industries. When you upload a document to Formstack along with the signer’s contact information, they will be notified by text or email of the signature request allowing them to sign from anywhere.

This software has notable features such as unlimited eSignatures, document uploads, and templates for use.

Price: Plans starting at $16
/user/month

17. SignRequest

Mobile app: None, web-based

For those who need signatures in a pinch, SignRequest offers free document uploading and electronic signatures through their easy-to-use platform. SignRequest also has an API that can integrate directly with your CRM to store all of your contact and signature data in one place.

Price: Free plan offers 10 documents per month for one user; paid plans start at $7/month for one user sending unlimited documents

18. eversign

Mobile app: None, web-based

In addition to managing eSignatures, eversign offers a robust document management solution. Meaning, sending documents off for signature is a straightforward process with the tool. Other notable features include secure document storage, a document editor, the ability to manage documents for multiple businesses, and custom templates.

The contact management feature is especially helpful for organizations that are not ready to implement a full CRM solution but want to maintain contact records for document signers.

Price: Free plan offers 5 documents per month; paid plans start at $9.99/month for unlimited documents

19. SnapSign

Mobile app: None, web-based

SnapSign offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface for collecting eSignatures. The platform is U.S. ESIGN and UETA compliant, making documents legally binding. This tool also has pre-built integrations so you can quickly, easily incorporate signature collection in your current workflow.

SnapSign also has a robust template library for common forms such as Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), sales contracts, and more.

Price: Plans starting at $9.99/user/month

20. Scrive

Mobile app: iOS | Android

Scrive is an electronic signature and identification tool that allows you to manage documents from anywhere, via any device. Automate the eSignature process by setting up self-service forms and using templates to save your team time. Customize and brand your documents and the eSignature experience for your customers and signees.

Scrive also ensures your documents are secure with tools like BankID, and NemID all built into the tool. You can brand the eSignature experience across all of your documents.

Price:Plans starting at €30/user/ month; custom quotes available for enterprise

Ditch Paper Signatures for the Faster Alternative

Signature apps are valuable to your team because they save time and streamline an often redundant and time-consuming, yet important, process. They’re also beneficial to your customers — by making it easy for them to quickly sign contracts, coupled with your ability to track activity and schedule reminders and follow-ups, you’ll improve the buyer’s journey and create a more enjoyable customer experience. So, identify the right signature app for your needs and team, and start saving time.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in July 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.