WATCH: 4 Must-Know PDF Editors for Chromebook to Edit PDFs
Introduction:
Chromebook users frequently handle PDFs for school and work, yet ChromeOS offers only basic features, making advanced PDF tasks difficult. A dependable PDF editor for Chromebook can eliminate unnecessary frustration and help you handle documents more efficiently. Check out these trusted options below— and be sure to see the SwifDoo PDF post for enhanced editing tools.

Compared with Windows or macOS, Chromebooks cannot install full-fledged desktop software, which often limits advanced productivity tasks— especially when you need to edit PDFs with richer tools and features. Instead, users rely mainly on web-based or lightweight apps, which may not always offer the same power or flexibility. Luckily, a number of reliable tools can fill this gap and make PDF editing on ChromeOS much easier.

Tips: If you also have Windows or Mac PCs and need to handle PDFs, SwifDoo PDF is worth a try! It allows you to view, read, edit, annotate, convert, sign, protect, organize, manage, and print PDFs efficiently. Additionally, it also offers versions for Android and iOS devices. You can download it from the Google Play Store or the App Store.

Is There a Built-in PDF Editor on Chromebook?

Yes. Chromebooks have a built-in way to edit PDFs. Using the Gallery app, you can view and edit your PDF files without hassle. The app lets you perform various actions such as viewing, highlighting text, annotating, and adding comments.

Plus, you can complete forms without needing to install any additional software. Much of this functionality is available through the Gallery app, which opens by default when you click on a PDF. However, its capabilities are not as advanced as those of complete desktop editors. 

Check how to edit a PDF in the Gallery App on Chromebook in a few clicks.

Step 1. Locate the PDF file you want to edit. And it will automatically open up in the Gallery app.

Step 2. At the top of the Gallery window, select the Draw tool and use your desired editing tools. 

Step 3. Now, draw, underline, or highlight text, and even remove handwritten marks. Use the Text tool to add typed notes or labels.  

Step 4. Choose the line thickness and color to customize your annotations. Use the page panel to rotate or delete pages.

Step 5. Click Save to overwrite the file, or, just select Save as to make a new copy. 

4 Best PDF Editors for Chromebook

To overcome ChromeOS’s built-in limitations, several reliable tools make PDF editing smoother and more capable on a Chromebook. These apps offer everything from simple annotations to advanced editing features, depending on your needs. Below are four of the best options worth trying. 

#Adobe Acrobat Online PDF Editor

Adobe Acrobat is the industry-leading PDF solution, delivering the best user experience for everyone. If you are seeking a free online PDF editor, Adobe Acrobat Online can be your go-to solution. The web-based tool makes it easy to quickly annotate, edit text, add comments, and fill and sign PDFs. The Adobe Acrobat Online has 25+ powerful PDF tools that let you easily add sticky notes, highlights, drawings, and more for easier communication and collaboration. 

#Sejda

Sejda is another easy, pleasant, and productive tool that can help you edit and manage various PDF tasks for free. Offering over 30 PDF tools, Sejda lets you edit, annotate, compress, merge, split, crop, and add watermarks to PDFs. Whether you need to fill and sign PDFs, add text, links, images, and shapes, or edit existing PDF text, Sejda stands out as a reliable choice. Not only does it keep your confidential files private, but it also automatically deletes them from its servers after 2 hours. 

#Kami

Kami is a secure, versatile annotation tool that turns any resource into an interactive learning experience. Its editing tools let you draw, add and customize text, add comments, highlight, and do more. In addition, Kami empowers students and teachers with collaborative learning, real-time feedback and insight, and AI-powered assessments and grading. Kami is fully compatible with the Chrome PDF viewer. This allows users to open and annotate PDFs directly within the browser. 

#PDF2Go

PDF2Go is a reputable free PDF editor for Chromebooks that enables you to edit, compress, merge, split, and convert your PDFs instantly in your browser. You can directly edit a PDF document, add text or images, or draw boxes, circles, and arrows on your PDF page. PDF2Go also lets you highlight passages and add a watermark to the PDF. With lightning-fast speed, the tool processes quick editing and other tasks. Also, the web-based tool automatically deletes files after 24 hours.

Comparison Table: Best PDF Editors for Chromebook

Prior to picking a PDF editor for your Chromebook, consider how each option varies in functionality, convenience, and classroom support. Here’s a table comparing the above 4 PDF editors for Chromebooks. This helps you pick the one that best fits your workflow.

How to Choose the Right PDF Editor for Chromebook

Selecting the ideal PDF editor can feel overwhelming with so many options available. A quick evaluation of your editing needs, device limitations, and feature preferences can help you narrow down the choices and find a tool that truly suits your Chromebook workflow.

Follow these tips to pick the right PDF editor for your Chromebook. 

Check feature requirements.

Make sure it provides both basic and advanced features, such as editing, annotation, collaboration, and OCR.

Consider cloud compatibility.

Select an editor that integrates smoothly with Google Drive and other cloud storage.

Review price and limits.

Compare free vs. paid features, daily limits, and long-term subscription costs to determine the best option for your needs. 

Evaluate ease of use.

Look for a simple navigation, a clean interface, and tools that work well on Chromebooks.

Prioritize document security. 

Confirm the editor offers basic security features, such as safe file handling and privacy controls.

Wrapping Up

Your choice of the best PDF editor for Chromebook depends on whether you need editing power, collaborative tools, or simple online options. Tools like Adobe Acrobat Online, Sejda, Kami, and PDF2Go provide Chromebook users with a simple way to manage and improve their PDFs. Each option has advantages, making it easy to find the right fit for any workflow.