PDF-XChange Editor vs PDFgear: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between PDF-XChange Editor and PDFgear 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-XChange Editor
The smallest, fastest, most feature-rich PDF viewer and editor available.
Best for you if:
- • Comprehensive PDF creation, viewing, and editing.
- • Offers a perpetual license model with no subscription fees.
PDFgear
Read, edit, convert, merge, and sign PDF files across devices, for completely free and without signing up.
Best for you if:
- • Completely free PDF editor with no sign-up or watermarks.
- • Offers a full suite of PDF tools including editing, conversion, merging, and signing.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | File Management | File Management |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | PDF-XChange Editor | PDFgear |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | File ManagementE-Signature | File ManagementE-Signature |
Understanding the Differences
Both PDF-XChange Editor and PDFgear solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.PDF-XChange Editor positions itself as "the smallest, fastest, most feature-rich pdf viewer and editor available." while PDFgearfocuses on "read, edit, convert, merge, and sign pdf files across devices, for completely free and without signing up.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose PDF-XChange Editor
PDF-XChange Editor makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose PDFgear
PDFgear is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, PDF-XChange Editor lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: PDF-XChange Editor
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. PDFgear is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: PDFgear
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: PDF-XChange Editor
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? PDF-XChange Editor is completely free.
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-XChange Editor higher (/100). But the community has upvoted PDFgear more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What PDF-XChange Editor Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider PDFgear If
- You need a completely free solution
- 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-XChange Editor. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. PDF-XChange Editor scores higher in our analysis, but PDFgear 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-XChange Editor or PDFgear better?
Based on our analysis, PDF-XChange Editor scores higher with high/100. PDF-XChange Editor isfree while PDFgear is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from PDF-XChange Editor to PDFgear 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-XChange Editor and PDFgear offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. PDF-XChange Editor is completely free.PDFgear is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.