Electronic Signature vs Digital Signature
Understand the key differences between electronic signatures and digital signatures. Learn which one you need for your documents.
Quick Answer
Electronic signature is a broad term for any digital method of signing (typed names, scanned images, click-to-sign). Digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature that uses PKI encryption and cryptographic certificates to provide higher security and legal validity. All digital signatures are electronic signatures, but not all electronic signatures are digital signatures.
Electronic Signature
Any digital method of indicating consent
- • Typed names
- • Scanned signatures
- • Checkbox agreements
- • Touchscreen signatures
Digital Signature
Cryptographically secured electronic signature
- • Uses PKI encryption
- • Certificate-based
- • Tamper-evident
- • Cryptographically verified
Understanding the Definitions
What Is an Electronic Signature?
An electronic signature (eSignature) is any electronic method used to indicate a person's intent to agree to the contents of a document. Under U.S. law (ESIGN Act), an electronic signature is defined as "an electronic sound, symbol, or process attached to or logically associated with a contract or record and executed or adopted by a person with the intent to sign the record."
Examples of Electronic Signatures:
What Is a Digital Signature?
A digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature that uses Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) technology to encrypt and authenticate the signature. It involves cryptographic algorithms, digital certificates issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs), and a unique public/private key pair for each signer.
Key Components of Digital Signatures:
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Electronic Signature | Digital Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Any digital method of signing | Cryptographically secured eSignature using PKI |
| Technology | Can be simple (typed text, images) or advanced (with authentication) | Always uses encryption, hash functions, and digital certificates |
| Security | Varies (basic to high, depending on implementation) | Very high (tamper-evident, cryptographically verified) |
| Authentication | Optional (email, SMS, password) | Required (PKI certificates from trusted authorities) |
| Tamper Detection | Depends on platform (some have it, some don't) | Always includes tamper-evident seals |
| Legal Validity (U.S.) | Legally binding under ESIGN Act and UETA | Legally binding with higher evidentiary weight |
| Ease of Use | Very easy (click, type, or draw) | Slightly more complex (requires certificate setup) |
| Cost | Free to low-cost (many free tools available) | Higher (certificate fees, specialized platforms) |
| Best For | Business contracts, NDAs, internal approvals, HR documents | High-security contracts, government filings, regulated industries |
| Examples | DocuSign, Adobe Sign, TurboSign, HelloSign | Government digital IDs, Adobe Sign with certificates, DocuSign with PKI |
When to Use Each Type
Use Electronic Signatures For:
Sales Contracts & Proposals
NDAs, MSAs, SOWs, and routine business agreements
HR Documents
Offer letters, onboarding forms, performance reviews
Internal Approvals
Purchase orders, expense reports, policy acknowledgments
Customer Agreements
Service agreements, terms of service, consent forms
Real Estate (Most States)
Lease agreements, purchase offers, disclosure forms
Use Digital Signatures For:
Government Filings & Contracts
Tax documents, regulatory submissions, public sector contracts
Financial Services
Loan documents, investment agreements, banking authorizations
Healthcare
Patient consent forms, medical records authorization
Legal Documents (Litigation)
Court filings, affidavits, contracts likely to be disputed
Intellectual Property
Patent filings, trademark applications, licensing agreements
Security Comparison
Electronic Signature Security
Security varies widely depending on the implementation. Basic electronic signatures (typed names, scanned images) offer minimal security. Advanced electronic signatures use:
Digital Signature Security
Digital signatures always include enterprise-grade security features:
🔒 Security Verdict
For most business use cases, modern electronic signature platforms (like TurboSign) provide sufficient security with audit trails and authentication. Digital signatures are necessary when cryptographic proof of authenticity is required by regulation or when the document will likely be challenged in court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are digital signatures more legally binding than electronic signatures?
Not necessarily. In the U.S., both are legally binding under ESIGN and UETA. However, digital signatures carry more evidentiary weight in court because they provide cryptographic proof of authenticity and tamper detection.
Can I use an electronic signature instead of a digital signature?
For most business contracts, yes. Electronic signatures are sufficient for sales agreements, NDAs, HR documents, and standard contracts. However, certain industries (government, healthcare, finance) or high-stakes agreements may require the additional security of digital signatures.
Are electronic signatures and digital signatures the same thing?
No. Digital signatures are a specific type of electronic signature. All digital signatures are electronic signatures, but not all electronic signatures are digital signatures. Digital signatures specifically use PKI encryption, while electronic signatures can include simple methods like typed names or scanned images.
Which is better: electronic signature or digital signature?
It depends on your use case. For most businesses, electronic signatures (with authentication and audit trails) are easier to use, more affordable, and legally sufficient. Digital signatures are better when you need cryptographic proof of authenticity or higher court admissibility for disputed contracts.
Does TurboSign use electronic or digital signatures?
TurboSign uses advanced electronic signatures with authentication, audit trails, and tamper detection. For users requiring PKI-based digital signatures, TurboSign supports certificate-based signing for regulated industries and high-security use cases.
How do I verify a digital signature?
Most digitally signed PDFs can be verified in Adobe Acrobat Reader by clicking on the signature field. The software will check the certificate validity, verify the document hasn't been tampered with, and display the signer's identity and certificate details. Learn more about how electronic signatures work.
Related Resources
How Electronic Signatures Work
Understand the technology behind electronic signatures including authentication, encryption, and audit trails.
How to Sign a PDF
Step-by-step guide to signing PDF documents electronically with 5 easy methods including free options.
TurboSign E-Signature Platform
Free e-signature solution with both electronic and digital signature support for all security requirements.
Get Unlimited Secure Electronic Signatures
TurboSign provides unlimited signatures for $20/month with legally compliant electronic signatures, advanced security features including authentication, audit trails, and tamper detection. Start with 5 free signatures.