While OneSpan Sign serves many of the world’s largest banks with robust security features, many development teams and software companies require eSignature infrastructure with greater customization flexibility, transparent pricing, and seamless embedding capabilities. The global digital signature market was valued at USD 5.2 billion in 2024, with projections indicating growth to USD 38.16 billion by 2030. This expansion demands platforms that go beyond basic signature capture to offer complete white-labeling, developer-friendly API and SDK tooling, and flexible pricing models that traditional enterprise solutions often lack.
Key Takeaways
- API-first architecture determines customization potential: Verdocs offers 60+ embeddable web components with native React, Angular, and Vue wrappers, while OneSpan and DocuSign rely on iframe-based implementations that limit styling control and user experience consistency
- White-labeling capabilities vary dramatically: Verdocs provides modular HSM support enabling organizations to bring their own signing certificates—a feature unavailable from any competitor—eliminating vendor branding throughout the signing experience
- Envelope limits impact total cost of ownership: Verdocs Pro plan includes unlimited envelopes versus OneSpan’s 1,000 transactions per year and DocuSign’s 100 envelopes per year on business tiers, creating significant cost differences at scale
- Microsoft ecosystem integration matters for enterprise teams: Verdocs stands as the first fully embeddable eSignature solution native to Microsoft’s Commercial Cloud, with direct Teams, Power Platform, and Dynamics 365 integration unavailable elsewhere
- Free tiers enable risk-free evaluation: Verdocs offers 25 envelopes monthly with API access and webhook support at no cost, while OneSpan does not offer a permanent free tier for production use
The eSignature landscape has shifted toward cloud-based deployments capturing 56% of revenue share, with North America holding about 38.99% market share. This analysis examines seven OneSpan alternatives through the lens of developer experience, embedding capabilities, pricing transparency, and compliance requirements to help product teams select infrastructure that matches their technical needs.
1. Verdocs — API-First Architecture Built for Developers and ISVs
Verdocs represents the most comprehensive developer-first eSignature alternative available, designed from the ground up for software companies embedding document workflows into their own applications rather than redirecting users to third-party signing experiences.
Key Features:
- 60+ embeddable web components covering the complete document lifecycle: Sign, Send, Auth, Build, Search, Preview, and Admin
- Native wrappers for React, Angular, and Vue frameworks—not iframe-based like competitors
- Modular HSM support allowing organizations to bring their own signing certificates (unique capability)
- Native Microsoft Commercial Cloud integration including Teams, Power Platform, and Dynamics 365
- Isomorphic JavaScript SDK functional in both browser and Node.js server environments
- Complete white-labeling of embeds, email templates, and signing experiences
- SOC 2 Type 1 certified with PKI digital signatures using 2048 RSA encryption
Pricing Structure:
- Free tier: 25 envelopes/month, 5 templates, unlimited test documents—no credit card required
- Pro Plan: Custom pricing including unlimited envelopes, unlimited templates, webhooks, priority support, and dedicated Customer Success
- Platform pricing: Special models for software publishers who white-label and resell eSignature capabilities
- View complete API pricing details
Why Verdocs Leads as a OneSpan Alternative:
The fundamental difference lies in architectural philosophy. While OneSpan requires developers to work within constraints designed for end-user applications, Verdocs provides building blocks that let teams construct bespoke signing experiences. As Chad Osgood, CEO of Diligence, explains: “Verdocs allows us to take the process of digital signatures and completely tailor it to our client’s specific needs rather than forcing our clients to conform to an outdated and clunky eSign process.”
For real estate workflows, fintech applications, and legal document management, Verdocs enables proof-of-concept deployment in hours through ready-to-use web components while supporting full-code customization for organizations requiring complete control.
The modular HSM capability deserves particular attention—no other eSignature platform allows organizations to use their own signing certificates rather than vendor-provided options. This feature addresses compliance requirements in regulated industries and eliminates vendor lock-in at the cryptographic level.
2. DocuSign — Market Leader with Extensive Integration Ecosystem
DocuSign maintains a market position with over 1 million customers and 1 billion users globally, offering the widest third-party integration ecosystem among eSignature providers.
Core Capabilities:
- 400+ pre-built integrations spanning CRMs, ERPs, and business applications
- REST API access across all plan tiers
- Standard SOC 2 and HIPAA compliance certifications
- Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, HubSpot, Oracle, and SAP connectivity
- Familiar interface with strong brand recognition
Pricing Structure:
- Personal: $15/month (single user, 5 envelopes/month)
- Standard: $45/user/month (up to 100 envelopes/user/year)
- Business Pro: $65/user/month (up to 100 envelopes/user/year, advanced features)
- Enhanced plans: Custom pricing based on envelope limits and advanced IAM features
Limitations to Consider:
DocuSign’s strength in integrations comes with tradeoffs for developer-focused teams. The platform offers limited white-labeling—branding customization only, with no email domain masking or complete vendor branding removal. DocuSign’s widespread brand recognition creates phishing vulnerabilities as attackers target DocuSign-branded emails.
The envelope-based pricing model creates cost predictability challenges—organizations experience significant cost fluctuations due to overage charges and transaction-based billing constraints.
3. Adobe Sign — Best for Adobe Creative Cloud Ecosystem Users
Adobe Sign integrates tightly with Adobe’s document management suite, making it the logical choice for organizations already invested in Creative Cloud, Acrobat, and Adobe Document Cloud workflows.
Standout Capabilities:
- Native Creative Cloud and Acrobat integration
- Familiar Adobe interface for existing users
- Standard compliance certifications (SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR)
- Multiple language support for international deployments
- Standard CRM integrations with Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics
Pricing Structure:
- Acrobat Standard for teams: $14.99/user/month (with team collaboration and 100 transactions/year)
- Acrobat Pro for teams: $23.99/user/month (with advanced features and integrations)
- Acrobat Studio for teams: $29.99/license/month
- Acrobat Sign Solutions (enterprise e-sign): Custom pricing
Where Adobe Sign Falls Short:
For development teams seeking embedding flexibility, Adobe Sign presents significant constraints. The platform offers limited white-labeling with no option to remove Adobe branding completely. Integration depth outside the Adobe ecosystem lags behind DocuSign’s 400+ connectors, and API capabilities focus on standard use cases rather than highly customized implementations.
Adobe Sign delivers value primarily when signing workflows feed directly into Adobe document management—for standalone eSignature needs or custom application embedding, alternatives like Verdocs provide superior flexibility.
4. Dropbox Sign — Simplified eSignature for SMB Teams
Following Dropbox’s 2019 acquisition of HelloSign, Dropbox Sign targets small and medium businesses seeking straightforward signing functionality integrated with Dropbox storage.
Key Features:
- Tight Dropbox integration for document storage and management
- User-friendly interface requiring minimal training
- Standard authentication methods
- API access for basic integrations
- SOC 2 compliance certification
Pricing Structure:
- Essentials: $20/month (for individuals)
- Standard: $30/user/month (for small teams)
- Premium: Custom pricing based on team size and requirements
Practical Limitations:
Dropbox Sign serves basic signing requirements adequately but lacks the depth needed for enterprise deployments or custom application embedding. Limited white-labeling options, fewer integrations than market leaders, and constrained API capabilities make it unsuitable for development teams building branded signing experiences.
The platform works well for internal document signing when Dropbox already serves as the organization’s file storage solution—beyond that use case, more capable alternatives exist.
5. PandaDoc — Document Creation Plus Signing in One Platform
PandaDoc differentiates through end-to-end document lifecycle management, combining document creation, editing, collaboration, and signing within a single platform—serving the SMB and mid-market segments.
Core Strengths:
- Complete quote-to-cash workflow with CPQ functionality
- Unlimited envelopes per user—no transaction limits
- Template library with drag-and-drop document builder
- CRM integrations with Salesforce, HubSpot, and Pipedrive
- Advanced document analytics and tracking
- 4.7/5 G2 rating with strong user satisfaction
Pricing Structure:
- Free: $0/month (unlimited seats, 60 documents/year)
- Starter: $35/seat/month (unlimited documents)
- Business: $65/seat/month (advanced workflows, CRM integrations, etc.)
- Enterprise: Custom pricing (per-seat or per-document, includes API and advanced automations)
Where PandaDoc Fits—and Doesn’t:
PandaDoc excels when organizations need document creation and signing unified in one tool, particularly for sales teams managing proposals, quotes, and contracts. However, the platform offers limited white-labeling and lacks the API depth required for embedding signing experiences into custom applications.
Development teams building products with embedded eSignature functionality will find PandaDoc’s architecture oriented toward end-users rather than developers—Verdocs serves this use case more effectively.
6. SignNow — Budget-Friendly Option for Basic Requirements
SignNow positions itself as an affordable eSignature solution for startups and small businesses prioritizing cost over advanced features.
Available Features:
- Straightforward signing workflows
- Basic template management
- Standard authentication options
- Mobile-optimized signing experience
- Essential integrations with common business tools
Pricing Structure:
- Business: $20/user/month (for small teams)
- Business Premium: $30/user/month (adds bulk sending, advanced branding, and more)
- Enterprise: $50/user/month (for organizations with more complex workflows)
- Site License: Typically quoted separately, $1.50 per signature invite
Honest Assessment:
SignNow handles basic electronic signature requirements at competitive price points but lacks the security certifications, advanced authentication, and embedding capabilities that enterprise organizations and developers require. For teams with simple internal signing needs and tight budgets, SignNow delivers adequate functionality—for anything more sophisticated, the limitations become apparent quickly.
7. Signeasy — Mobile-First Signing Experience
Signeasy built its platform around mobile optimization, targeting users who primarily sign documents from smartphones and tablets.
Mobile Capabilities:
- Native iOS and Android applications
- Optimized mobile signing flows
- Basic template functionality
- Standard compliance certifications
- Simple integration options
Pricing Structure:
- Free: $0/month (limited usage; basic eSigning)
- Personal: $15/month (single user; core eSignature features)
- Business: $30/user/month (small teams; added collaboration features)
- Business Pro: $40/user/month (teams needing advanced tools and controls)
- Build Your Plan: Custom pricing (5+ seats or high-volume needs; tailored limits and features)
Mobile Focus Creates Tradeoffs:
While Signeasy delivers polished mobile experiences, the platform’s capabilities for web-based embedding, API integration, and enterprise workflows lag behind competitors. Organizations with mixed device usage or developer requirements will find the mobile-first architecture limiting.
The OneSpan Reality: Why Development Teams Seek Alternatives
OneSpan Sign earns its strong ratings through genuine strengths in security and authentication. The platform’s document tamper-sealing after each signer, FedRAMP certification, and advanced authentication options including Knowledge-Based Authentication and liveness detection serve regulated industries well.
However, several factors drive development teams toward alternatives:
- Pricing Complexity: OneSpan’s Professional plan includes 1,000 transactions annually, but hidden costs for advanced authentication, bulk sending, video signing, and remote online notarization add up quickly. Rigid user-based licensing leads to wasted licenses when transaction volume varies.
- Limited Customization at Lower Tiers: While OneSpan offers white-labeling, full customization requires enterprise commitments. Teams needing developer-friendly tools with flexible pricing find better options elsewhere.
- Integration Challenges: Some users report integration issues and limited search capabilities, creating friction in complex workflow implementations.
- No Free Evaluation Tier: Unlike Verdocs’ 25-envelope monthly free tier, OneSpan does not offer a permanent free tier for production usage—limiting the ability to test extensively before purchasing.
Making the Right Choice for Your Development Team
Choose Verdocs when you need:
- Maximum customization through 60+ embeddable web components
- Complete white-labeling including bring-your-own signing certificates
- Native Microsoft ecosystem integration (Teams, Power Platform, Dynamics 365)
- Unlimited envelopes without transaction-based pricing anxiety
- Free tier for extensive evaluation and proof-of-concept development
- React, Angular, or Vue native framework support
Choose OneSpan when you need:
- Maximum security certifications (FedRAMP, ISO 27001)
- Advanced authentication including liveness detection
- Document tamper-sealing after each signer
- Banking and highly regulated industry requirements
Choose DocuSign when you need:
- Maximum third-party integration breadth (400+ connectors)
- Brand recognition for external-facing documents
- Extensive CRM native connectivity
The eSignature market’s projected growth to USD 38.16 billion by 2030 reflects expanding requirements beyond basic signature capture. For development teams building products with embedded document workflows, API-first platforms like Verdocs deliver the flexibility and control that traditional end-user-focused solutions cannot match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Verdocs different from OneSpan and other competitors like DocuSign or Adobe Sign?
Verdocs provides a fundamentally different architecture designed for developers embedding eSignature functionality into their own applications. While OneSpan, DocuSign, and Adobe Sign offer iframe-based embedding with limited customization, Verdocs delivers 60+ embeddable web components with native React, Angular, and Vue wrappers. The modular HSM support allowing organizations to bring their own signing certificates exists nowhere else in the market. Verdocs is the first fully embeddable eSignature solution native to Microsoft’s Commercial Cloud, with direct Teams, Power Platform, and Dynamics 365 integration.
Does Verdocs offer a free tier, and what are its limitations compared to paid plans?
Yes, Verdocs offers a free tier with 25 envelopes per month, 5 templates, and unlimited test documents—no credit card required. This tier includes full API access and webhook support, enabling thorough evaluation and proof-of-concept development. The Pro plan adds unlimited envelopes, unlimited templates, priority support, and dedicated customer success management. Unlike OneSpan, which offers only a time-limited free trial rather than an ongoing free plan, Verdocs lets teams build and test extensively before making purchasing decisions.
How does Verdocs handle security and compliance for electronic signatures?
Verdocs maintains SOC 2 Type 1 certification with PKI digital signatures using 2048 RSA encryption. All documents include tamper-proof seals and comprehensive audit trails capturing IP addresses, timestamps, and authentication methods. Signatures comply with the U.S. E-SIGN Act and UETA regulations. Documents are encrypted at rest and in transit, with encryption keys stored in secure Hardware Security Modules.
Can Verdocs be fully white-labeled to match our company’s brand identity?
Yes, Verdocs offers complete white-labeling that extends beyond basic branding customization. This includes full control over email templates, embed styling, and elimination of vendor branding throughout the entire signing experience. The modular HSM support means even the signing certificates can be organization-owned rather than vendor-branded. This contrasts with DocuSign and Adobe Sign, which offer only partial branding customization while maintaining their own branding elements in the signing flow.
What kind of integrations does Verdocs offer, especially within the Microsoft ecosystem?
Verdocs provides exclusive, fully embeddable eSignature integrations within Microsoft’s Commercial Cloud—a capability no competitor matches. This includes native connectors for Microsoft Power Automate enabling low-code workflow creation, embedded experiences within Microsoft Teams, and direct integration with Dynamics 365 Business Central and Customer Engagement applications. These integrations are available through Microsoft AppSource, and the isomorphic JavaScript SDK enables custom integrations with virtually any system through REST API and webhook capabilities.