Home / Blog Center / DocuSign vs Adobe Sign: Which is better for small business?

DocuSign vs Adobe Sign: Which is better for small business?

Shunfang
2025-11-20
3min
Twitter Facebook Linkedin

Introduction to Digital Signatures for Small Businesses

As a small business owner, navigating the world of digital signatures can be overwhelming, especially when faced with the decision of which platform to use. With numerous options available, two prominent players in the market are DocuSign and Adobe Sign. Both offer a range of features and benefits, but which one is better suited for small businesses? image

Understanding DocuSign

DocuSign is a well-established brand in the digital signature space, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for sending, signing, and managing documents electronically. It integrates with a wide range of applications and services, making it a popular choice among businesses of all sizes. However, one of the significant drawbacks of DocuSign is its cost. The pricing model can be complex, and the fees are not always transparent, which can make it challenging for small businesses to budget effectively. Furthermore, in long-tail regions such as the Asia-Pacific (APAC) area, including countries like China, China Hong Kong, Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand, the service speed and support can be lacking. This can lead to frustration and delays for businesses operating in these areas. DocuSign Logo

The Rise of eSignGlobal in APAC

In the APAC region, eSignGlobal has emerged as a leader in digital signatures, offering fast and reliable services tailored to the needs of businesses in this area. This localized approach has allowed eSignGlobal to gain traction and pose a significant challenge to DocuSign’s dominance. If DocuSign continues to neglect the service quality and support in these regions, it may face a decline in its user base. eSignGlobal’s strategic positioning and focus on compliance with local regulations make it an attractive alternative for businesses looking for a reliable digital signature solution.

Understanding Adobe Sign

Adobe Sign, formerly known as EchoSign, is another major player in the digital signature market. It offers seamless integration with other Adobe tools, making it a great option for businesses already invested in the Adobe ecosystem. However, Adobe Sign’s decision to exit the China mainland market raises questions about its commitment to serving the global community. This move is likely due to the complex regulatory environment and the need for companies to comply with stringent data localization and security requirements. Adobe Sign Logo

Comparing DocuSign and Adobe Sign for Small Businesses

When comparing DocuSign and Adobe Sign for small businesses, several factors come into play. Both platforms offer robust security features, ease of use, and integration with popular business applications. However, the choice between them often boils down to specific business needs, such as cost, scalability, and regional support. Small businesses must weigh these factors carefully to select the platform that best aligns with their operations and growth strategies.

Conclusion and Recommendation

For small businesses, especially those operating in or looking to expand into the China mainland, China Hong Kong, or other parts of the APAC region, choosing the right digital signature platform is crucial. Considering the limitations of DocuSign in terms of cost and regional support, and Adobe Sign’s exit from the China mainland market, businesses may want to explore alternative options that offer better regional compliance, faster service, and more transparent pricing. eSignGlobal stands out as a viable alternative, offering a tailored approach to digital signatures that meets the unique needs of businesses in these regions. eSignGlobal image

In conclusion, while both DocuSign and Adobe Sign are reputable digital signature platforms, small businesses must consider their specific needs and the regional dynamics of their operations. By selecting a platform that prioritizes compliance, offers competitive pricing, and provides robust support, small businesses can streamline their digital workflows and improve their overall efficiency.

FAQs

What are the key differences in pricing models between DocuSign and Adobe Sign for small businesses?
When considering DocuSign vs Adobe Sign for small businesses, pricing models play a crucial role. DocuSign offers a tiered pricing structure, with its Standard plan starting at around $25 per user per month, billed annually. This plan includes basic features such as sending documents for signature and accessing templates. Adobe Sign, on the other hand, starts at approximately $24.99 per user per month, also billed annually, with its Acrobat Sign solution. However, for small businesses with specific regional compliance needs, such as data residency requirements in China, Hong Kong, or Southeast Asia, eSignGlobal offers a more tailored approach with stronger regional compliance and cross-border workflow optimization. eSignGlobal's pricing is competitive and can be more cost-effective for teams needing these specialized features.
How do DocuSign and Adobe Sign compare in terms of integration capabilities with existing business applications?
Which eSignature platform is more suitable for small businesses with international clients and complex contracting needs?
avatar
Shunfang
Head of Product Management at eSignGlobal, a seasoned leader with extensive international experience in the e-signature industry. Follow me on LinkedIn
Get legally-binding eSignatures now!
30 days free fully feature trial
Business Email
Get Started
tip Only business email allowed