Still printing out contracts just to scan them back in? Legal teams need faster, cleaner ways to send, sign, and track agreements without dealing with paper or chasing email threads.

E-signature software makes it possible to sign documents electronically, stay organized, and move things along with fewer delays.

Some tools focus on speed and simplicity. Others come packed with features like AI-powered drafting, smart workflows, and full contract management systems. No matter your workload or team size, there’s a solution built to make the signing process faster, safer, and easier to manage.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the best e-signature software from feature-rich platforms to simple, no-fuss options legal professionals can rely on every day.

Are E-Signatures Legally Binding?

Yes, e-signatures are legally binding in most cases.

In the United States, electronic signatures are recognized under the ESIGN Act of 2000 and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA).

These laws confirm that e-signatures carry the same legal weight as handwritten ones, as long as both parties agree to use them and the system being used can keep a clear record of the signature process.

According to Purdue Global Law School, e-signatures are widely accepted and enforceable across many industries. This makes them a valid way to sign contracts, forms, and agreements in both personal and business settings.

Many other countries, including Canada, the U.K., and EU members, also accept electronic signatures for most legal documents. Just note that a few types of paperwork, like wills or court filings, might still require a handwritten signature, depending on local laws.

Best Electronic Signature Software With Expanded Features

Need more than just a basic signature? Some tools do a lot more, like helping you draft contracts, manage templates, set reminders, and track every step of the signing process.

These options are great for legal teams that deal with high volumes or need extra control over documents.

1. Aline

Aline is more than just an e-signature app. It’s a full contract management platform designed for legal teams and fast-moving businesses.

Built with lawyers in mind, Aline combines contract drafting, redlining, e-signing, and tracking into one clean, easy-to-use system. It’s especially handy for startups, legal departments, and B2B companies that need speed without giving up control.

Aline’s strength lies in its AI tools, smart workflows, and unlimited legally binding electronic signatures. From simple NDAs to complex sales contracts, Aline makes it easy to sign documents electronically, manage approvals, and store everything in a secure repository.

Best Features

• AlineSign – Built-in e-signature tool with unlimited, secure, and compliant signing (no extra charges per document).
• AI drafting & redlining – Use Aline AI to create, edit, and review contracts up to 10x faster.
• Workflows – Collaborate with sales, legal, and finance teams using structured approval flows.
• AI repository – Store, organize, and analyze contracts using searchable insights and smart filters.
• No-code template builder – Build dynamic contract templates with drag-and-drop tools.
• Real-time collaboration – Assign tasks, leave comments, and track edits across teams.
• Microsoft Word integration – Edit documents without switching between tools.
• Audit trails & compliance – Automatic record-keeping with full security and regulatory support.

Pros

• All-in-one platform for contract drafting, signing, and storage
• Unlimited electronic signatures included at no extra cost
• AI features cut down contract time significantly
• No need for extra tools like DocuSign or separate Word documents
• Great for legal teams working with other departments

Aline is built to simplify the signing process without cutting corners. If you're tired of bouncing between tools to draft, approve, and sign, Aline gives you one place to handle everything. 

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2. DocuSign

DocuSign is one of the most recognized names when it comes to digital signature tools. It’s trusted by law firms, legal departments, and enterprise teams worldwide.

If you’re dealing with lots of electronic documents every week and need a reliable way to collect signatures, DocuSign has you covered. You can sign documents electronically, track progress, and make sure every step is secure and legally compliant.

But DocuSign isn’t just for signing. Legal teams looking for more control over the entire contract workflow can also use DocuSign CLM (contract lifecycle management). This solution helps draft, negotiate, manage, and store contracts in one place.

Best Features

• Easy e-signatures – Get legally valid signatures on everything from NDAs to sales agreements.
• CLM for legal workflows – Draft, approve, and store digital documents in one place.
• Templates – Save time by creating reusable documents for things you send often.
• Live updates – Know who signed, who didn’t, and what’s still pending.
• Security and compliance – Meets the legal standards under ESIGN, UETA, and other key laws.
• Cloud access – Pull up signed contracts anytime, from anywhere.
• Tons of integrations – Works smoothly with Salesforce, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and others.

Pros

• Reliable for legal departments and large teams
• Helps you organize every step of the contract process with DocuSign CLM
• Makes it easy to collect signatures from clients and colleagues
• Keeps everything secure and easy to access
• Handles even the most complex electronic documents without a hitch

3. Zoho Sign

If you're already using Zoho tools or want something simple and affordable, Zoho Sign is a solid pick.

It’s a lightweight yet capable electronic signature platform that lets you send, sign, and manage contracts without any stress. It’s good for legal teams that want a clean interface, quick setup, and enough features to handle day-to-day work.

With Zoho Sign, you can get documents signed from anywhere. The platform creates a digital representation of your signature, and every action is logged, so there’s a clear record of the full signing process.

Best Features

• Legally compliant signatures – All documents are signed electronically in line with global standards.
• Simple dashboard – Track sent, pending, and signed files at a glance.
• Mobile access – Sign and manage documents from your phone.
• Workflow automation – Set signing order and automate follow-ups.
• Secure storage – Documents are encrypted and stored in the cloud.
• Zoho integration – Works perfectly with Zoho CRM, Docs, Mail, and more.

Pros

• Suitable for small legal teams or solo lawyers
• Affordable and easy to use
• Keeps the digital representation of each signature safe and secure
• Helps you manage documents signed across clients and departments
• Fits right into the Zoho ecosystem if you already use their apps

4. PandaDoc

PandaDoc lets you create, send, and manage contracts in one place, but without juggling multiple platforms or relying on paper documents. You can handle electronic signing, collect in-person signatures, and track everything in real time.

It’s especially helpful if your team works closely with sales or operations. PandaDoc supports full contract workflows, from drafting to signing, and even lets you collect payments right inside the document.

Best Features

• Drag-and-drop document builder – Create custom contracts without using separate editing tools.
• Electronic signing – All documents are signed electronically with full compliance and audit trails.
• In-person signing – Supports face-to-face signing when needed.
• Approval workflows – Automate internal reviews and notifications.
• Payment collection – Add payment options directly into contracts.
• Analytics – Track views, opens, and signature status in real time.

Pros

• Combines contract drafting, approvals, and signing in one tool
• Easy to send documents and track them from start to finish
• Reduces reliance on paper documents and external tools
• Supports in-person signing for on-site clients or meetings
• Clean, user-friendly experience for both legal teams and clients

Best Simple Electronic Signature Tools

Not every legal task needs a full contract management system. Sometimes, you just need a fast, no-fuss way to get documents signed. These tools are great for lawyers and legal teams who want something straightforward, affordable, and easy to use:

5. SignWell

SignWell is a decent option if you need something straightforward to get signatures without the usual delays. It’s built for speed and simplicity, making it easy to digitally sign contracts, forms, and other important documents without relying on printers or scanners.

Legal professionals who don’t need complex workflows will appreciate how quick it is to get started. You can send documents, track progress, and stay compliant, all without the bulk of traditional methods.

Best Features

• Easy-to-use interface – Minimal setup and a short learning curve.
• Legally binding signatures – Documents are digitally signed and tracked for compliance.
• Templates – Save and reuse common legal documents.
• Signature tracking – Get notified when a signer completes or views a document.
• Audit logs – Full record of the signing process for accountability.
• Free plan – Covers basic signing needs without a subscription.

Pros

• Simple setup that’s ideal for quick legal tasks
• Cuts down time compared to traditional methods
• Helps you send and manage important documents with confidence
• Works well for small teams or solo legal professionals
• Affordable, with a free option for low-volume use

6. SignNow

SignNow is a dependable eSignature software solution built for teams that need speed, flexibility, and control. It’s especially useful for legal departments that want a reliable way to send contracts, securely upload documents, and get them signed without a lot of extra steps.

Whether you're reviewing agreements or closing deals, SignNow helps you move fast while keeping everything secure and compliant. It works well for legal teams of all sizes and supports a range of workflows, from simple one-off signatures to multi-party approvals.

Best Features

• Secure uploads – Securely upload PDFs, Word docs, and more for signing.
• Legally compliant signatures – Meets U.S. and international standards.
• Multi-user workflows – Route documents to multiple signers in order.
• Mobile apps – Sign and send documents from anywhere.
• Custom branding – Add your firm’s logo and messaging.
• Cloud storage – Store signed files in a searchable online archive.

Pros

• Suitable for firms focused on closing deals quickly
• Simple interface that works for both teams and clients
• Lets you securely upload and manage sensitive legal files
• Reliable eSignature software with flexible workflow options

7. eSignatures.com

eSignatures.com offers a no-frills, easy-to-use solution for legal professionals who want a fast and secure way to get documents signed. It focuses on the essentials, such as sending, signing, and storing documents.

If you're looking for a clean interface and simple process that still covers compliance and security, this platform gets the job done.

Best Features

• Role-based access – Control who can view and sign documents.
• Activity tracking – Know when a document is viewed, signed, or downloaded.
• Clean interface – Simple dashboard for sending and managing documents.
• Secure cloud storage – Store signed files with encryption.
• No account required – Recipients can sign without creating a login.

Pros

• Suitable for small law firms or solo practitioners
• Easy to learn and use, even with little tech experience
• Supports in-person signing without hassle
• Keeps everything secure while staying lightweight
• Straightforward pricing with no hidden fees

Why Use Electronic Signature Software?

For lawyers and legal departments, electronic signature software improves the signing process without adding complexity. It helps you manage contracts, approvals, and legal forms faster, while staying compliant with laws around legally binding electronic signatures.

With the right tool, you can sign documents electronically, send them securely, and keep everything organized. Here’s why many legal teams now rely on electronic signature apps:

• Faster contract turnaround – Prepare and sign legal agreements in minutes instead of days.
• Secure audit trails – Every action is recorded, giving you a clear record of who signed and when.
• Meets legal standards – Tools follow U.S. laws like ESIGN and UETA, supporting legally binding electronic signatures.
• Remote signing – Clients can sign documents electronically from any device, removing the need for in-person meetings.
• Reusable templates – Create standard documents like NDAs or retainer agreements for quick reuse.
• Easy internal approvals – Share documents between departments and speed up the signing process.
• Professional and simple – Most tools are easy to use, and they help you maintain a clean, branded experience.

Some tools even offer digital signature support for extra verification. With many electronic signature apps now available, legal professionals can work smarter, faster, and stay fully compliant, without sacrificing quality or control.

Overview of E-Signatures

E-signatures, short for electronic signatures, are a simple way to sign documents online without using pen and paper. They let you approve or agree to something by clicking, typing, or drawing your signature using almost any device.

Instead of printing out a contract, signing it, scanning it, and emailing it back, you can just open the document on your screen and sign it digitally. It’s quick, legal, and works for most types of documents.

Here’s how people usually add an e-signature:

• Click-to-sign – You just click a button to sign your name.
• Typed name – You type your name and pick a signature style.
• Drawn signature – You draw your name with your mouse, finger, or stylus.
• Uploaded image – You upload a photo of your real signature.

E-signatures are used in all kinds of everyday situations, like signing a job offer, approving a contract, filling out HR paperwork, or closing a deal. The best part? You can do it from anywhere, and it usually takes less than a minute.

Aline Gives You All The Contract Tools You Need

Most platforms stop at the signature; Aline doesn’t. It’s built for legal teams that need more than just a way to sign.

With Aline, you can draft contracts using AI, set up smart workflows across departments, manage approvals, and digitally sign every document, all without switching tabs or chasing down versions.

You don’t need separate tools for Word docs, eSignatures, and contract storage. Aline wraps it all into one clear, powerful platform that actually makes legal work easier.

Think your contract process could be simpler?

Give Aline a try and run your legal work the way it should be—fast, secure, and all in one place.

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FAQs About Best E-Signature Software

Which e-signature software is best?

The best eSignature software depends on your needs. Aline is great for all-in-one contract workflows, DocuSign is trusted by large teams, and SignWell works well for solo use. Look for features like audit trails, automatic reminders, and solid customer support.

What is better than DocuSign?

If you're looking for more built-in features at a better price, tools like Aline or PandaDoc can be strong alternatives. They offer advanced contract drafting, bulk sending, and real-time collaboration that might fit your workflow better than Adobe Sign or DocuSign.

Does Microsoft have an eSignature?

Microsoft doesn’t have a native e-signature tool, but it integrates with various platforms like DocuSign, Adobe Sign, and Zoho Sign. These integrations allow you to sign directly within Microsoft Word or Outlook.

How do I write my signature electronically?

You can type your name, draw it with your mouse or finger, or upload an image of your signature. Most tools create a secure digital representation that tracks activity and supports data collection for audit purposes.

Can I try e-signature tools without entering credit card details?

Yes, many providers offer free plans that don’t require credit card details. For example, some plans let you sign up to three documents, support unlimited users, and still include key features like templates and audit logs. Always check what’s included before committing.