PDF-XChange Editor Plus: Strengths Weaknesses and Is the License Worth Buying?

PDF-XChange Editor Plus: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Is the License Worth Buying?

PDF-XChange Editor Plus is one of the most capable PDF editing tools available for Windows users who need professional-level features without relying on expensive subscription-based software. With a lifetime license model and a wide set of editing and conversion tools, the software has become a favorite among office workers, students, and businesses in Indonesia.

This article explores the main advantages, notable drawbacks, and an overall verdict on whether purchasing the Editor Plus license is a smart investment.


Advantages of PDF-XChange Editor Plus

1. Lightweight and Extremely Fast

One of the biggest strengths of PDF-XChange Editor Plus is its excellent performance. The software launches quickly and handles large PDF files far more efficiently than many competitors. This makes it a smart choice for users with mid-range or older Windows devices.

2. Full Editing Capabilities

The Plus version enables professional-level editing, including:

  • Editing text directly inside the PDF

  • Replacing or inserting images

  • Drawing shapes, adding graphics, and creating complex layouts

  • Adjusting fonts, formatting, and object placement

This allows users to modify documents without recreating them from scratch.

3. Powerful OCR Features

The built-in OCR engine lets you convert scanned documents into searchable and editable text. This is essential for digitizing paperwork, office archives, or academic materials.

4. Dynamic Form Creation

PDF-XChange Editor Plus includes advanced form-building tools. Users can design interactive forms with:

  • Text boxes

  • Checkboxes

  • Radio buttons

  • Dropdowns

  • Digital signature fields

This feature is extremely valuable for businesses and administrative workflows.

5. Extensive Conversion Options

The software supports exporting PDFs into common formats such as:

  • Microsoft Word

  • Excel

  • PowerPoint

  • Text

  • Various image formats

This flexibility is particularly useful for editing content outside of PDF format.

6. One-Time Purchase License

Unlike subscription-based PDF editors, PDF-XChange Editor Plus uses a perpetual license. You pay once and can use the full version for life — making it cost-effective over time.


Disadvantages of PDF-XChange Editor Plus

1. Interface Can Feel Overwhelming

Because the software contains so many tools, the layout may look crowded for new users. The interface prioritizes functionality over modern design, which may take some time to get used to.

2. Windows-Only Platform

PDF-XChange Editor Plus is not available for macOS. Users who work across multiple platforms may find this limiting.

3. Some Advanced Tools Are Complex

Features like form creation, advanced OCR, and layout modifications require learning. Beginners might find certain tools difficult without tutorials.

4. Free Version Adds Watermarks

The free edition of PDF-XChange includes many features, but advanced editing tools add a watermark unless you upgrade to the paid version.

5. Not Ideal for Cloud Collaboration

The software does not offer real-time collaboration or cloud syncing like some modern PDF platforms. It is best suited for offline and desktop-based workflows.


Is PDF-XChange Editor Plus Worth Buying?

✔ Yes, it is absolutely worth buying if:

  • You work with PDFs every day

  • You need reliable editing, form creation, or OCR

  • You prefer a lifetime license instead of monthly fees

  • You use Windows and want a fast, efficient PDF editor

  • You want an affordable alternative to Adobe Acrobat Pro

With its strong performance, deep feature set, and excellent long-term value, PDF-XChange Editor Plus offers one of the best price-to-performance ratios in the PDF software market.

✖ It may not be worth it if:

  • You only need simple PDF reading or highlighting

  • You work on macOS

  • You depend heavily on cloud collaboration

For light or casual users, the free version might already be sufficient.


Final Verdict

PDF-XChange Editor Plus stands out as a powerful, high-performance, and cost-effective PDF editor. Its professional tools — including editing, form design, OCR, and file conversion — make it suitable for business users, students, and office environments. While the interface can be complex and it lacks cloud features, its overall value remains outstanding thanks to its one-time purchase system and wide feature set.

For users in Indonesia seeking a reliable and affordable PDF editing solution, PDF-XChange Editor Plus is a highly recommended purchase.