The main difference between Sumatra PDF and Foxit PDF Editor lies in key features and pricing plans. Sumatra PDF is a free PDF Reader for Windows. In contrast, Foxit PDF Editor is a paid, multi-platform solution with advanced PDF management features.
In this article, we will explore the other major differences between Sumatra PDF vs. Foxit PDF Editor.
Sumatra PDF vs. Foxit Comparison
| Platforms Supported | Cloud Storage | Integrations | Custom Branding | Pricing |
Sumatra PDF | Windows | No | N/A (Latex Editors needed) | No | Free |
Foxit | Windows Mac SaaS/Web iPhone iPad Android | Yes | Gmail, HubSpot, Slack, Zoho, DropBox, Box, Google Drive, and more. | Yes | Starts at $11.30 per month |
Annotation Tools
Sumatra PDF’s annotation tools are quite limited. You could add simple text notes to a PDF document by right-clicking on the page and selecting “Add Note.” You could also highlight text within the PDF by selecting the text with your mouse.
To add an annotation using Foxit PDF Editor, go to the “Comment” tab in the Foxit software toolbar. Within this tab, you will find various tools to customize your notes. For instance, the highlight tool enables you to highlight text and attach a brief comment that will be visible to others.
Merge & Split PDF Documents
Sumatra PDF primarily functions as a lightweight and quick PDF viewer with a focus on simplicity and performance. It is not designed to handle advanced PDF editing tasks like merging and splitting PDF documents.
Foxit PDF Editor allows you to merge multiple PDF documents by opening them and selecting “Create PDF” or “Combine PDF.” You can also split a PDF by opening it and choosing “Split Document.” You may specify the split criteria, like page range or bookmarks, and save the generated files.
Custom Branding
Unlike some other PDF software designed for commercial or corporate use, Sumatra PDF lacks extensive branding tools and features. These are required for businesses to personalize their documents effectively.
Foxit PDF Editor offers extensive custom branding options. It includes the ability to replace the software’s logo and splash screen. You can also personalize the colors and even modify the “About” box with your company details.
User Interface
Sumatra PDF’s user interface is clean and free of clutter. It emphasizes the content of the PDF document rather than unnecessary toolbars or buttons. By default, Sumatra PDF opens PDFs in a single-window view, meaning each PDF document has its own window. This makes it easy to work with multiple PDF files simultaneously.
With Foxit PDF Editor, on the other hand, there is a “File” tab that allows you to access document-related functions. These include opening, saving, and creating new PDFs. Foxit PDF Editor also has a navigation panel on the left side. This lets users view and navigate through the pages of the document. This can be used for tasks like rearranging pages or adding bookmarks.
Mobile Compatibility
Sumatra PDF is accessible via desktop computers running Windows only. It does not have a dedicated mobile app for Android or iOS devices.
On the other hand, Foxit PDF Editor offers mobile applications for both Android and iOS devices. These apps allow you to view, edit, and annotate PDF documents on your mobile device.
Signature Integration
Sumatra PDF does not have built-in eSignature features or capabilities for creating or adding electronic signatures to PDF documents.
Conversely, Foxit PDF Editor offers an eSignature feature, allowing its user base to add electronic signatures to PDF files. This makes it easier to sign and share documents digitally without the need for physical signatures.
Customer Support
Sumatra PDF has an official documentation or user manual available on its website. This documentation provides information on how to use the software and its features. Users can also access forums for more user reviews and insights.
Foxit PDF Editor offers customer support through email for technical assistance, marketing inquiries, and general support. Users can also go for phone support for general inquiries, with the option of faxing.
Pricing
Sumatra PDF has no pricing plans or paid versions. It’s distributed under an open-source license, which means that it’s available for download and use at no cost. However, it’s important to note that while it’s free, it’s not as extensive as some paid PDF solutions.
Foxit PDF Editor offers three main pricing options that start at approximately $11.30. There’s also a one-time purchase plan based on software edition and licenses. It also provides free trials and potential discounts for educational entities.
Fill: The Best Alternative to Sumatra PDF
When it comes to finding the best Sumatra PDF alternative, Fill emerges as the undisputed choice. First, Fill brings mobile convenience with iOS and Android apps for document accessibility on the fly. This feature is notably absent in Sumatra PDF.
Fill also stands out with real-time notifications, ensuring you know when recipients sign and complete forms. Plus, Fill offers robust 256-bit security. This meets HIPAA standards for safeguarding your sensitive documents, which is not the case with Sumatra PDF.
Experience seamless, cross-platform PDF handling and document security with Fill. Sign up for a free account today.
