Electronic vs digital signature: what’s the difference?

By Theyvora · 2026-09-23 · 4 min read

The terms get used interchangeably, but they mean different things. An electronic signature is any mark that shows intent to sign — typed, drawn or clicked. A digital signature is a specific technology that adds cryptographic proof of who signed and that the document hasn't changed since.

Electronic signature

This is the broad, legal category. A typed name, a drawn signature, or clicking "I agree" can all be electronic signatures, and they're valid for most business documents. Their strength comes from the record around them: who signed, when, from where, and a tamper-evident copy.

Digital signature

A digital signature is a subset of e-signatures that uses public-key cryptography to bind the signature to the signer and seal the document. Any change afterwards breaks the seal. It's used where higher assurance is required.

Which do you need?

• Everyday agreements (quotes, contracts, NDAs, consent) — an electronic signature with a solid audit trail is enough.
• High-assurance or regulated documents — you may need a digital or qualified signature. Check the requirements for your document type and country.

What a good tool gives you

A signing platform captures the signer's details, a timestamp and an audit trail, and issues a verifiable certificate of completion — the practical proof most businesses need.

Create your signature free

Make a reusable signature and sign documents in your browser, with an audit record for every completed file.