Updated on 20th Jan, 2023 – PDF(Portable Document Format) is probably the most reliable and efficient way to share documents and files over the virtual world. By being unable to edit easily, PDFs are the most securest way to share documents in the virtual world. Obviously, it can be edited to some extent when needed in terms of photos and text insertion and it is easier done using Linux with some of the below PDF editors. They can be used on other operating systems as well, but we will discuss the ones which can be used on Linux.
We will consider each software independently and rate them using the following criteria:
- Monetary Value:
- Ease of Installation
- Functionality
This will help you make a more informed decision about what you want, and you can choose according to your requirements and specifications without having to do any extra searching. In case you have an issue with your Acrobat software, you have the possibility to repair PDF.
Read: How to merge or split PDF files on Linux
Here are the best PDF editors for 2021 that you should know of:
1. Inkscape
Inkscape has been a favorite among users for its vector design capabilities. It’s not just a PDF editor but also offers features for creating illustrations, designs, and logos.
While the software is free, it only offers basic PDF editing features and may not meet your needs. Additionally, it only allows you to edit one page at a time, which can be slow if the document is large. Nevertheless, it’s a good option for temporary use as it is compatible with multiple operating systems.
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 4/5
- Functionality: 3/5
Read: 13 Best Font Manager Tools
2. Okular
Okular has been a go-to Linux-based PDF editor for quite some time now. And the best part, it’s completely free and loaded with basic editing features. But what really sets it apart is the cherry on top – it allows you to add personal touches to your PDFs like pop-up notes, freehand drawings, inline notes and even stamps. So, if you’re looking for a basic PDF editor with some solid annotation tools, then Okular’s got your back. And the best part, you can use it on any operating system without breaking the bank!
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 3.5/5
- Functionality: 3.5/5
Read: How to install and use PDFTK on Linux to merge or split PDF files
3. Scribus
Scribus pdf editor for linux needs no introduction with all the desktop publishers in the world. Not only does it allow you to illustrate and design flyers, images, documents, and various other media sources, it also allows for pdf editing. Not only just documents but forms too. You can add controls as well, making it different from other editors. Free and supported by Windows, Mac, and Linux.
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 4.5/5
- Functionality: 4/5
4. Qoppa PDF Studio
Qoppa software introduced a commercial PDF editor that has all the features you could think off and more. Not only can it edit PDF documents, but it can also:
- Scan directly to pdf
- Insert/delete pages
- Apply header/footers
- Edit text and other properties
- Add sticky notes/hyperlinks/freehand
- Allows comparison between two documents
- Add a password
These are just some of the features as this software supports so many more. If you are looking for an allrounder that can help you understand what your own requirements are, then this is the software for you.
- Monetary Value: 4/5
- Ease of Installation: 3/5
- Functionality: 5/5
Read: Best pdf converters in 2023
5. PDF escape
If you’re one of those folks who hates downloading software and just wants a quick fix for editing your PDFs, PDFescape is your go-to. This web-based tool lets you edit your docs right in your browser without any downloads or installations. Just keep in mind that being a browser app, it comes with some limitations like document size and page length.
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 5/5
- Functionality: 3/5
6. GIMP
If you’re looking for something more than just a basic PDF editor, GIMP is the tool for you. It’s actually a powerful image manipulator first and foremost, but you can also use it for editing PDFs. Just keep in mind, you’ll have to download a separate plugin to do so and editing isn’t exactly a walk in the park. You’ll need to recompile the photo, convert it into layers, and unfortunately, you can only edit one page at a time.
- Monetary Value: 3/5
- Ease of Installation: 2/5
- Functionality: 3/5
Read: How To Install Adobe Reader on Ubuntu 22.04
7. Apache OpenOffice Draw
Considered to be one of the best open source pdf editors, Apache open draw supports all major OS and allows for insertion of text, images, forms and much more with its highly effective software.
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 4/5
- Functionality: 3.5/5
8. Evince
This PDF editor is a full fledge Linux software. It includes Gnome Desktop moreover supports tiff, PDF, Postscripts and XPS. This software has many features that include printing and indexing of a document, encryption and search tools along with other tools that you can use.
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 3/5
- Functionality: 4/5
9. Foxit Reader
Foxit Reader is a game-changer when it comes to PDF editing, with a unique cloud-based approach. You can easily share your edited docs with others, plus it’s got added perks like encryption and password protection. Sharing and collaboration are a breeze, and it’s super user-friendly. And the best part? It’s totally free and works with any operating system. Techies will love it!
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 4.5/5
- Functionality: 3/5
Read: Best website design software for 2022
10. Master PDF Editor
“Master PDF Editor” ain’t just any old PDF program – it’s a powerhouse packed with tons of features. You can not only create and edit your PDF docs, but you can also convert ’em to a bunch of different formats. With all its capabilities, it’s like a one-stop-shop for all your PDF needs. From adding text and images to inserting forms, buttons, and even handwritten signatures, this software has got it all covered.
- Monetary Value: 5/5
- Ease of Installation: 4.5/5
- Functionality: 4.5/5
Read: Review of PDF Wiz – The complete PDF converter
Final Verdict
Although there are many PDF editors out there for Linux, I’m sure that our list of best PDF editors won’t disappoint you.
Not all PDF editors are the same, hence, make sure you only choose the one which is the most suitable for you. Let us know what you think of the editors on our list.
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LibreOffice Draw does a pretty good job of editing PDF’s as well.
“Editing PDFs” is a pretty unspecific description. As a LaTeX used, my ideal PDF reader/editor should be able to do the following:
a) Automatic reload when the file has changed (a must for LaTeX)
b) Follow internal and external links inside a document.
c) When en internal link has been followed, have a “back” button/key-combination that brings you back to the point where you clicked (very useful with long documents with lots of links)
d) When you adjust a specific level of text magnification, keep it from one page to the next, and keep the text centered.
e) Allow “inline” comments, that can be seen without clicking on an icon (like Evince does).
f) A highlight text mode that does something useful when you apply it outside a text area (e.g. draws a straight highlighted line, like a marker would)
g) Can separate highlights and notes from the text, with the option of searching or erasing your additions.
I don’t know any reading that has all of these.