Linux · Office
Master PDF Editor
A proprietary PDF editor for Linux that handles text editing, forms, and digital signatures with a familiar interface.
- License
- LicenseRef-proprietary
- Latest version
- 5.9.99 (August 11, 2026)
- Developer
- Code Industry
- Installs
- 5,824 (Flathub, 30 days)
What is Master PDF Editor?
Master PDF Editor is a mature, proprietary application developed by Code Industry. It has been available on Linux for years, offering a stable environment for managing PDF documents. The software covers the full lifecycle of a PDF, from basic viewing to advanced structural editing, making it a complete replacement for basic office document management needs.
It is aimed at office workers, students, and anyone who needs to modify PDFs without switching to a Windows machine. If you regularly fill out forms, merge documents, or need to correct text in a scanned document, this tool is designed for that workflow. It serves as a direct alternative to Foxit PDF Editor for users who prefer a Linux desktop environment.
Compared to Foxit, Master PDF Editor feels slightly more utilitarian but equally capable. The interface is clean and uncluttered, focusing on the document itself. While Foxit has a larger ecosystem of add-ons, Master PDF Editor integrates its core features directly into the main window, reducing the learning curve for users who just want to edit and sign documents quickly.
Best for: Users who need a reliable, feature-rich PDF editor on Linux that can handle forms and signatures without relying on Windows.
Key features of Master PDF Editor
- Edit PDF text and images directly
- Mark, annotate, and highlight content
- Merge and split PDF files
- Support for JavaScript and Dynamic XFA forms
- Validate forms and calculate field values
- Add digital signatures and sign documents
- Change font attributes like size and color
Pros
- Handles complex form types like XFA
- Direct replacement for Foxit PDF Editor
- Available via Flathub for easy installation
- Supports digital signing and validation
Cons
- Proprietary license, not open source
- Some advanced features may require a license
- Interface is functional but less polished than some competitors
Windows programs Master PDF Editor replaces
How to install Master PDF Editor on Linux
flatpak install flathub net.code_industry.MasterPDFEditorTips for Windows users
Your existing PDF files will open without issue. Shortcuts are largely standard, but check the 'Help' menu for any specific differences in keyboard mappings compared to Foxit. The workflow for merging or splitting is similar, usually found under the 'Tools' or 'Document' tabs. If you use specific Foxit plugins, note that Master PDF Editor has its own internal tools for most common tasks, so you may need to adjust how you approach certain advanced edits.
Recent releases
- 5.9.99 —
- Implemented the ability to create initials with a transparent background when loading from an image. - Added saving the list of devices in the “Select Scanners” dialog window once the initial search for devices is canceled on Linux systems. - Added new…
- 5.9.98 —
- 5.9.97 —
- 5.9.94 —
Master PDF Editor: frequently asked questions
Is Master PDF Editor free on Linux?
It is freemium. The basic editing and viewing features are free, but some advanced functions like digital signing or specific form tools may require a paid license.
Can I edit text in scanned PDFs?
No, you must run OCR (Optical Character Recognition) first. Master PDF Editor can edit text in digital PDFs, but scanned images need to be converted to text using a separate tool like OCRmyPDF.
Does it support XFA forms?
Yes, it supports both standard AcroForms and Dynamic XFA forms, which is a strong point compared to some other Linux PDF viewers.
Where can I download it?
The easiest way is via Flathub. You can search for 'Master PDF Editor' in your software center or install it using the flatpak command.
Updated