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Electronic Signatures vs Digital Signatures: What's the Difference?
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Electronic Signatures vs Digital Signatures: What's the Difference?

L
Legal Insights
February 5, 2026 6 min read

Electronic vs Digital Signatures

While often used interchangeably, these two terms mean very different things in the world of online documents.

Electronic Signature (eSign)

An electronic signature is a broad term for any electronic process that indicates acceptance of an agreement. This includes:

  • Typing your name at the bottom of an email.
  • Checking a "I Agree" box.
  • Drawing your signature on a screen using our Sign PDF tool.

Key Takeaway: Fast, easy, and legally binding for most business contracts.

Digital Signature

A digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature that uses encryption technology to verify the identity of the signer and ensure the document hasn't been tampered with. It acts like a digital "fingerprint."

Which do you need?

For 99% of general business agreements, tax forms, and rental contracts, a standard Electronic Signature (like the one Docorio provides) is perfectly widely accepted and legally robust.

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