How To Edit PDF on Mac Free (Easy & Legal Methods)
Editing a PDF on a Mac doesn’t require expensive software. macOS comes with built-in tools that allow you to edit PDF files for free, and there are also reliable online options if you need advanced features. In this guide, you’ll learn how to edit a PDF on Mac for free using simple, legal, and effective methods.
Is It Free to Edit PDFs on a Mac?
Indeed, editing PDFs on a Mac is free. Without installing any third-party software, you may edit text, add signatures, highlight material, and annotate PDF files using Apple’s robust Preview feature.
Method 1: Use Preview (a built-in tool) to edit PDFs on a Mac
The simplest and safest method for editing PDFs on macOS is to use Preview.
How to Use Preview to Edit PDFs on a Mac
The PDF file can be right-clicked.
Choose Open With → Preview.
In the toolbar, select the Markup Tool (pen icon).
Utilize the resources at your disposal to:
Include text
Emphasize or underline the text
Sketch shapes
Add remarks or notes
Put your signature here.
What You Can Do with Preview
-
Add and edit text fields
-
Highlight or annotate documents
-
Sign PDFs electronically
-
Merge or rearrange PDF pages
-
Crop or rotate pages
Best for: Basic PDF editing, annotations, and signatures
Method 2: Edit PDF on Mac Using Free Online Tools
If you want more editing features, such as full text replacement or form editing, free online PDF editors are a good option.
Best Free Online PDF Editors for Mac
-
Smallpdf
-
iLovePDF
-
PDFescape
-
Sejda PDF
How to Edit PDFs Online on a Mac
Use your browser to launch any free online PDF editor.
Upload your PDF document.
Modify pages, pictures, or text
Get the updated PDF here.
Advice: For privacy concerns, don’t upload private papers online.
Method 3: Use LibreOffice (Free Software) to Edit PDFs on a Mac
Deeper PDF editing is possible using LibreOffice Draw, a free and open-source application.
Procedures
Install LibreOffice after downloading it.
Launch LibreOffice Draw.
Bring in your PDF document.
Modify layouts, photos, and text
Export in PDF format
Ideal for: Advanced editing without having to purchase Adobe Acrobat
What Can You Edit in a PDF for Free on Mac?
| Feature | Preview | Online Tools | LibreOffice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Add text | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Highlight | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sign PDF | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Edit existing text | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Rearrange pages | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Can I use Adobe Acrobat for free on a Mac?
Although editing tools require a premium subscription, Adobe Acrobat Reader is free. Preview and free tools are better choices if you only need basic editing.
The Best Free Method for Editing PDFs on a Mac (Suggested)
For fast edits: Make Use of Preview
Use LibreOffice Draw to edit complete text.
Utilize reputable online PDF editors for a seamless user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I edit text in a PDF on a Mac for free?
You can edit text using LibreOffice Draw or free online PDF editors.
Can I edit a PDF without Adobe Acrobat on Mac?
Yes, Preview and LibreOffice allow PDF editing without the need for Adobe Acrobat.
Is Preview safe for editing PDFs?
Yes, Preview is built into macOS and is completely safe.