# Sign PDF: Arthize vs Nitro PDF

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

To sign a PDF, Arthize offers a free, private sign pdf with no watermark — a focused alternative to Nitro PDF. Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again.

## Arthize's sign 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:** Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again.

- 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 sign a PDF with Arthize

A clear electronic signature is legally valid for everyday agreements in most countries.

Cryptographic digital signatures bind the signature to the document for higher assurance.

You can fill form fields and sign in the same tool without printing.

## How to sign a PDF with Arthize

1. **Open the sign tool** — Sign in and open the sign-and-fill tool.
2. **Create your signature** — Draw it, type it in a signature font, or use a digital certificate.
3. **Place it and fill the form** — Drop the signature where it belongs and fill any fields, dates or checkboxes.
4. **Download the signed PDF** — Save the signed document with no watermark.

## FAQ

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

Yes. Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again. 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 sign a PDF online for free?

Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### Is an electronic signature on a PDF legally valid?

Signing a PDF lets you draw, type or add a digital signature and fill form fields, so you never print, sign and rescan a document again. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.
