# Annotate PDF: Arthize vs Nitro PDF

_Updated July 2026 · Arthize · https://arthize.com/vs/nitro-pdf/annotate-pdf_

To annotate a PDF, Arthize offers a free, private annotate pdf with no watermark — a focused alternative to Nitro PDF. Annotating a PDF adds highlights, comments, shapes and notes on top of the page, so you can mark up a document without changing its text.

## Arthize's annotate pdf vs Nitro PDF

Nitro PDF is a business-focused PDF and e-signature platform. Nitro sells a business PDF and e-signature platform on per-seat licensing.

**Arthize's approach:** Annotating a PDF adds highlights, comments, shapes and notes on top of the page, so you can mark up a document without changing its text.

- Transparent pricing: free forever, Pro from $6/mo or $48/yr, and a one-time $149 lifetime option.
- No per-seat licensing to start.
- Files are processed inside your private Arthize workspace and deleted after the job — never sold or used to train models.
- 50+ tools live in one workspace, so you don't jump between single-purpose pages.

## How to annotate a PDF with Arthize

Annotations sit on top of the page and don't change the underlying text.

You can highlight, comment, draw and add notes.

Annotated files are ideal for review and feedback.

## How to annotate a PDF with Arthize

1. **Open the editor** — Sign in and open the PDF editor.
2. **Add your PDF** — Upload the document to mark up.
3. **Add annotations** — Highlight text, add comments, draw shapes or leave notes.
4. **Download** — Save the annotated PDF.

## FAQ

### Is Arthize a good Nitro PDF alternative to annotate a PDF?

Yes. Annotating a PDF adds highlights, comments, shapes and notes on top of the page, so you can mark up a document without changing its text. Arthize does it free with no watermark and deletes the file after the job. Nitro is a considered choice for larger organisations standardising on one vendor.

### How do I annotate a PDF?

Annotating a PDF adds highlights, comments, shapes and notes on top of the page, so you can mark up a document without changing its text. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### Can I highlight and comment on a PDF?

Annotating a PDF adds highlights, comments, shapes and notes on top of the page, so you can mark up a document without changing its text. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.