The PDF format was created byAdobeSystems, and introduced at the Windows and OS/2 Conference in January 1993.
It became an open standard in 2008, which enabled other companies to make PDF-compatible software.
Were going to take a look.
The software’s main window is clean and simple showing you a handful of tools, while reminding you to upgrade to Acrobat Pro
As a result, it is offered completely free of charge.
Shame about the constant prompts to get you to upgrade, though.
It does distract from the otherwise pleasant workflow.
Once you’ve logged in, you can easily set up documents and send them for others to fill in and sign - all for free
Adobe Acrobat Reader: Interface
The interface looks clean and simple.
Youll also find a small Create tab, top left.
This is where youll find one of thebest Word to PDF converters- but it also works with images.
Reading a PDF, annotating it, drawing on it, inserting notes, it’s all very easy to achieve
But thats not the only hidden prompt to upgrade youll find dotted around the interface.
All of this must be great from a marketing point of view, but is far from user friendly.
The most obvious bonus is gaining access to your Adobe Cloud Storage.
Acrobat Reader can detect fields that need to be filled in, making it easy for you to complete and sign a digital form
Adobe very generously offers you 2GB of free storage.
No need to pay for anything to get it.
We have to say, though, this is some of thebest eSignature softwarein a PDF reader.
The activity, linked to a document, will show you who has read it and signed it - an easy to follow digital paper trail
The recipients do not need an account themselves.
This can be most useful.
you’ve got the option to of course open and read a PDF.
These should be seen as basic functions, not premium ones.
This is exceedingly frustrating.
Thankfully, those premium tools have a small blue asterisk next to their icon to help you discern them.
Puzzlingly, Request a Signature has such an icon, yet you might use it for free.
This leaves 7 tools (8 if you count Request a Signature) free for you to use.
It is frustrating to see this, especially since Adobes professional tools are so exceedingly good.
Such tactics shouldnt be needed.
Adobe Acrobat Reader: Scorecard
Should I buy?
So, if you’re looking for an alternative to Reader, we know what to look out for.
First, check ourAdobe Acrobat Standard review(or ourAcrobat Pro reviewfor business use).
