The best PDF reader for iPad: the ultimate list

3 minute read

If you’re on the hunt for the best PDF reader for your iPad, you’re in the right place! We’ve curated a list of the top 5 PDF apps, each with its own unique features, interfaces, and price points. Whether you’re looking for basic functionality or advanced features, there’s something here for everyone.

Let’s be honest: PDFs are everywhere. Whether you’re sending, reading, or signing them (by the way, eSigning with Soda PDF is a breeze—shameless plug), they’re a big part of our daily lives. A reliable PDF reader on your iPad can make a huge difference. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’ve done the legwork for you!

Here’s our top 5 picks:

1. Adobe Acrobat Reader

  • Price: Free
  • Best Feature: Renowned reliability

Adobe Acrobat Reader has been a leader in the PDF world since the format’s inception in 1993. It’s a powerhouse of a tool, offering everything from cloud connectivity to multi-language support and various annotation options. Plus, it’s backed by Adobe’s exceptional support. Perfect for those who need reliable, straightforward PDF functionality—without spending a dime.

2. PDF Expert 6

  • Price: $10
  • Best Feature: Superior organization

PDF Expert 6 excels in almost every area. At just $10, it’s a fantastic deal for what you get. This app is all about smooth organization and a fantastic reading experience. The interface is clean and user-friendly, offering features like sidebar favorites, file tagging, and customizable viewing modes (day, night, and sepia tones). Its design sets it apart and makes managing your PDFs a pleasure.

Bonus – Soda PDF Anywhere: Of course, we couldn’t resist mentioning Soda PDF Anywhere. With our browser-based editor, you can access and manage your PDFs directly from your browser. It’s designed to read like a real book and offers all the functions you need. We might just have put ourselves at the top of this list if we could!

3. iAnnotate

  • Price: $9.99
  • Best Feature: Annotation capabilities

If you’re into detailed note-taking and highlighting, iAnnotate is your go-to app. It offers features like drawing, highlighting, strikethroughs, underlining, and adding digital signatures. With tabbed browsing for multiple documents and easy cloud uploads, it’s a solid choice for those who need powerful annotation tools on the go.

4. iBooks

  • Price: Free
  • Best Feature: Simple and already on your device

Yes, that’s right! The app you use for your favorite novels can also handle PDFs. iBooks is a straightforward, free option for viewing and managing your PDF library. While it’s not packed with advanced features, it’s perfect for simple reading and easy access. If you’re after a no-fuss, basic reader, iBooks has you covered.

5. GoodReader

  • Price: $4.99
  • Best Feature: Great value

GoodReader is an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on features. For just $5, you get diverse annotation tools, signature support, and cloud service integration. It also boasts a solid file manager and useful features like text-to-speech. It’s a great choice for those who want functionality without breaking the bank.

We’ve sifted through numerous apps to bring you this top 5 list (and a bonus mention for Soda PDF!). Why get bogged down by countless options when you can choose from these top-notch picks? With any of these, your PDF experience on your iPad will be transformed for the better.

And remember, Soda PDF’s online reader is perfect for those on the move. You can easily read and annotate documents anytime, anywhere. Plus, with our full editor, you can enjoy reading PDFs for free while accessing a range of other amazing features. Give it a try today!

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