PDFCraft as an open source alternative

PDFCraft is an open source application developed by the ArtCraft team as a free alternative to Adobe Acrobat. It allows users to create, edit, and manage PDF files on multiple operating systems, including Linux, FreeBSD, macOS, and Windows. Unlike Adobe Acrobat, it does not require an account, telemetry data, or cloud services, and is fully local and open source.

Features and user experience

Users have reported that PDFCraft enables them to read, create, edit, and organize PDF files with ease. It supports tasks like merging, splitting, securing, and searching within documents, as well as adding text fields, comments, and stamps. The application is noted for its speed, accurate typography handling, and non-destructive editing, which preserves the original document’s integrity.

Organize Pages feature

One of PDFCraft’s standout features is the "Organize Pages" tool, which allows users to rearrange, add, delete, or rotate pages via drag and drop. This feature also supports Bates numbering, a method used in legal documents to assign unique identifiers for easy indexing and searching. Users can open specific pages directly from this tool for quick access and editing.

Additional capabilities and customization

PDFCraft offers a wide range of tools for editing text, hiding content, signing documents, creating forms, and using digital certificates. It is designed to handle nearly any PDF-related task efficiently. The application also includes intuitive navigation and a user interface similar to other familiar software, making it easy for users to adapt and use without a steep learning curve.

How to install PDFCraft

To install PDFCraft, users can download the Craft Launcher from the ArtCraft team’s official GitHub page. This launcher provides access to all ArtCraft applications, including PDFCraft, and allows for a straightforward installation process. Once installed, PDFCraft can be launched with a single click, without the need to accept terms or create an account.