How to Annotate and Edit PDFs on Amazon Fire Tablets

Amazon Fire tablets are popular Android-based tablets that provide a range of features at an affordable price point. Their versatility and user-friendly interface make them a great choice for tasks like reading ebooks, streaming videos, web browsing, and more.

One common use case for Fire tablets is working with PDF documents – whether for productivity, education, or business purposes. However, the default PDF reader app on Fire tablets lacks robust annotation and editing capabilities found on more advanced PDF software.

Fortunately, there are several methods to annotate and edit PDFs on Fire tablets, ranging from free apps to paid software. With the right app, you can take highlights, add text boxes, insert images, sign documents, and more.

Methods to Annotate and Edit PDFs on Fire Tablets

Here are the main options for annotating and editing PDFs on Fire tablets:

1. Use Alternative PDF Reader Apps

The Amazon Appstore offers several PDF apps with annotation features like highlighting, adding text notes, drawing, adding shapes, and more. Top options include:

  • Xodo: Free app with extensive annotation tools. Can also edit PDF text, images, links.
  • Kami: Free app with highlighting, text notes, shape tools. Can export annotated PDFs.
  • Foxit: Free app with basic annotation features. Paid Foxit Premium unlocks advanced editing.
  • PDF Max: $2.99 app with annotation, form filling, conversion tools.

2. Convert PDF to Word and Edit

You can convert PDF files into editable Word documents with apps like:

  • OfficeSuite: Has integrated PDF to Word conversion. Edit Word docs, export back to PDF.
  • PDF Converter: Batch convert PDFs to Word. Basic editor to modify documents.

3. Use Cloud Storage Services

Using cloud storage like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive allows you to open and annotate PDFs stored in the cloud using official apps. Edits sync across devices.

4. Email Annotated PDFs to Yourself

Some PDF apps don’t have export annotation features. A workaround is to email the annotated file to yourself for retrieval on a computer for further editing.

Best Apps for Annotating and Editing PDFs

Based on features, price, and user reviews, here are my top picks:

1. Xodo (Free)

Xodo is a feature-packed free app with all standard annotation tools plus unique options like PDF page editing, image insertion, and document signing with certificates. It’s an excellent all-in-one solution.

Key Features:

  • Add text notes, highlights, shapes, freehand drawings
  • Insert/edit images and text in PDFs
  • Sign documents with digital signatures
  • Dark mode support

2. Kami (Free)

Kami focuses on annotation capabilities like highlighting, adding sticky notes, drawing. It has slick integration with Google Drive for easy PDF management across devices.

Key Features:

-Highlight and underline text

  • Add notes and shapes
  • Annotate with pens, highlighters
  • Google Drive support
  • Export annotated PDFs

3. Foxit Premium ($3.99/month)

Foxit Premium unlocks robust PDF editing tools for creating, modifying, converting, and securing PDFs. It’s one of the most versatile premium options.

Key Features:

  • Create, edit, convert PDFs
  • Annotate with notes, drawings
  • Modify images, text, links in PDFs
  • Password protect/encrypt PDF files
  • Fill and sign PDF forms

Tips for Annotating PDFs on Fire Tablets

Here are some handy tips for getting the most out of PDF annotation on your Fire tablet:

  • Use a stylus for easier highlighting/writing (capacitive styluses work best)
  • Annotate documents in landscape orientation for more comfortable writing
  • Enable auto-save in apps to prevent losing work
  • Export annotated files to cloud storage for backup
  • Screenshot annotated pages to extract highlights/notes
  • Use Xodo’s text reflow when reading PDFs to improve readability

With the right app and helpful tips, Fire tablets can be excellent productivity tools for working with PDFs. The annotation capabilities transform them from basic e-readers into robust document editors suitable for mobile work and learning.

About the Author

As a long-time Fire tablet user and mobile productivity enthusiast, I’ve tested dozens of PDF apps to determine the best options for reading, annotating and editing PDF documents. I use Fire tablets daily to manage and mark up PDFs related to my work in digital marketing and business analysis. I’m passionate about using mobile technology effectively to enhance productivity.