PDF Expert vs Better Proposals: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between PDF Expert and Better Proposals comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
PDF Expert
The go-to PDF editor and reader for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, making PDF tasks easy and efficient.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need file management features specifically
- • Comprehensive PDF editor and reader for Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, iPad).
- • Offers advanced features like OCR, AI-powered scan enhancement, and extensive annotation tools.
Better Proposals
Proposal software
Best for you if:
- • You need proposal software features specifically
- • Proposal management software starting at $16/month with 14-day free trial
- • Create professional proposals with drag-and-drop editor, e-signatures, and real-time tracking
| At a Glance |  PDF Expert |  Better Proposals |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | File Management | Proposal Software |
Rating | 87/100 | 83/100 |
| Feature | PDF Expert | Better Proposals |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 83 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | File ManagementE-Signature | Proposal SoftwareSales Enablement |
Understanding the Differences
Both PDF Expert and Better Proposals solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.PDF Expert positions itself as "the go-to pdf editor and reader for iphone, ipad, and mac, making pdf tasks easy and efficient." while Better Proposalsfocuses on "proposal software". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose PDF Expert
PDF Expert makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 87/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Better Proposals
Better Proposals is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, PDF Expert lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: PDF Expert
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. PDF Expert handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: PDF Expert
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Better Proposals takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Better Proposals
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with PDF Expert, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated PDF Expert higher (87/100). But the community has upvoted Better Proposals more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What PDF Expert Does Better
- Higher overall score (87/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Better Proposals If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with PDF Expert (87/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. PDF Expert scores higher in our analysis, but Better Proposals might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PDF Expert or Better Proposals better?
Based on our analysis, PDF Expert scores higher with 87/100. PDF Expert isfreemium while Better Proposals is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from PDF Expert to Better Proposals easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do PDF Expert and Better Proposals offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. PDF Expert is freemium with a free tier.Better Proposals is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.