PDF-XChange Editor is a powerful software for creating, editing, annotating, and securing PDF documents. Evolved from the popular PDF-XChange Viewer, this editor offers a compelling alternative to Adobe Acrobat, boasting a comprehensive suite of features at a competitive price. This review delves into its functionality, design, and overall value.
PDF-XChange Editor
Pricing and Versions
PDF-XChange Editor offers two paid tiers and fully functional free versions of both. The standard PDF-XChange Editor, priced at $56 for a single license, enables text and graphics editing, annotation, document security, and PDF creation and conversion. For $121, the PDF-XChange Pro bundle includes PDF-XChange Standard, PDF-Tools, and PDF-XChange Editor Plus, offering advanced features such as interactive form creation, virtual printing, and enhanced image editing tools. The free versions provide full functionality but add a watermark to all documents.
Design and Interface
The editor employs a ribbon-based interface with tabs categorizing the main functions across the top. Each tab reveals a toolbar specific to its function. A left sidebar, appearing when a PDF is opened, provides tools for navigating thumbnails, attachments, comments, and other document elements. Open PDFs are displayed in the main window, each within its own tab, facilitating efficient multitasking.
Editing Capabilities
Editing text in a PDF is straightforward. The “Edit Text” button on the Home tab activates individual text boxes around each paragraph. Clicking a box makes the text editable, allowing for seamless modifications. Object editing follows a similar approach, enclosing images within a box for resizing and repositioning.
PDF-XChange Editor
Annotation and Security Features
PDF-XChange Editor provides a wide array of annotation options. These include callouts, sticky notes, drawing tools, highlighters, stamps, 3D annotations, and even audio and video comments. For documents containing sensitive information, the “Protect” tab offers robust security tools. Users can control file access with passwords and encryption, manage editing permissions, redact text, and sanitize documents by removing hidden elements like metadata and links.
User Experience and Support
While the extensive toolbar with a dozen tabs might initially seem overwhelming, the intuitive layout allows for easy navigation. For less experienced users, the Tracker Software website provides clear tutorials with step-by-step instructions for essential tasks. A comprehensive support forum, accessible through the software’s help menu, addresses further questions and provides assistance.
Final Verdict: Is PDF-XChange Editor Worth It?
PDF-XChange Editor may not match the breadth of features offered by Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, but it effectively addresses most common PDF editing needs at a significantly lower price. Its intuitive interface, robust editing and annotation tools, and comprehensive security features make it a valuable and affordable solution for both individual and professional users. The free version, while watermarked, provides an excellent opportunity to explore the software’s capabilities before committing to a purchase.
