The best tool for viewing, editing and sharing PDFs.
Anybody who has used a computer in the last 20 years will be familiar with the PDF file format. It has been synonymous with the sharing of information based docs, free from the qualms of formatting issues… mostly.
Before we take a deep dive into the different options out there to view your all important pdf files, we’re going to take a quick look at the history of the most popular file type.
Related: Track who views your PDF with Tiiny Hosts inbuilt PDF analytics!
History Of The PDF File
The history of the beloved PDF file starts almost 30 years ago, in 1990. Before the creation of the PDF the concept of sending graphic documents over email was not believed to be possible - file sizes were too large… considering the average inbox storage size was in the megabytes back then.
John Warnock, working for Adobe, started the top secret project in the hopes of creating a file type that would look the same on screen as it would when printed. As different operating systems started establishing themselves around the same time, Warnock hoped that his new format would also not be constrained to the different operating systems emerging.
The big question that’s being asked by professionals across the internet, is about the future of the PDF - where is it going and what innovations are to come?
In recent years, we have seen innovations like the e-signature come to the PDF format, as well as live editing. It’s hard to predict what’s next but the pdf reader extensions listed below will bring them to you as soon as they are developed.
Top 4 PDF Reader Extensions
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
For those who have been in the digital game since the beginning you’ll be familiar with Adobe Acrobat as it’s probably the most universally used PDF reader out there. Supporting both Windows and macOS, it covers 98% of the software operating systems used by businesses like yours. Whether you’re a one person operation or a large enterprise, it’s likely you’ve used Adobe Acrobat before as it’s loved by many for its universal application.
There’s a free version which lets you view and interact with PDFs but you’ll want to upgrade to the paid version if you want increased functionality. With this offering you’ll be able to sign your life or business away with their intuitive e-signature feature along with other powerful editing tools.
If you’re editing Ebooks or product guides then this is the PDF editor for you!
- Foxit PDF Reader
Foxit is more than just a free PDF reader extension as you can create your own PDFs through their platform. You can simply export your document to Foxit to view and edit as It seamlessly integrates with common workplace tools such as the Microsoft office suite.
The layout is much like the office suite of products so navigation shouldn’t be an issue for most. As cybersecurity becomes one of the main concerns of businesses worldwide, Foxit has implemented a safe viewing mode, positioning itself as a favourite amongst those who deal with sensitive information. In their safe viewing mode, Javascript will be disabled, giving you and your fellow business owners and employees peace of mind.
- Tiiny Host
The first solution on this list that is purely hosted online - it is the best option for those who aren’t looking to download any software, keeping all their operations in the cloud. With password protection, you can choose who views your PDF with ease whilst accessing them anywhere with an internet connection.
One of the benefits of using an online PDF viewer and hosting platform is you can see who’s opened your file and from what location. This makes tracking seamless and easy and means you can generate real time information whilst waiting on a signature to close a deal or even see if the decision maker has opened your file. Those analytics aren’t possible with traditional software based PDF readers and is the reason so many businesses are moving to Tiiny host to view and share their PDF files.
Perfect for sharing outbound content no matter what industry you’re in. Users from education to consulting love Tiiny Host and its affordable subscription model.
Related: Looking to convert to or from PDF?
- DocuSign
DocuSign is one of the big players in the online file/agreement sharing space. Not only do they allow businesses to edit PDFs but a host of other file types. They’re an American company that allows businesses just like yours to manage their electronic agreements and contracts.
If your business is still relying on physical signatures to confirm an agreement then consider signing up to DocuSign. With rapid expansion due to the pandemic, they service businesses in almost every industry - simply upload your PDF contracts to the platform and allow your customers or clients to sign and edit at will.
Wrapping Up
There’s a host of PDF reader extensions available on the market but some are more complex than others and it really depends on the needs and requirements of your business. One thing’s for certain though, that Investing in a good PDF reader is essential for your business as the file type is here to stay.
