E-Signature vs Digital Signature
What's the Difference?
Confused about electronic signatures vs digital signatures? You're not alone. This comprehensive guide explains the differences, security features, legal validity, and which type you actually need for your business.
Simple Explanations
Legal Compliance
Security Comparison
2026 Updated
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E-Signature vs Digital Signature: Quick Comparison
Here's what you need to know at a glance.
| Feature | Electronic Signature (E-Signature) | Digital Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Technology Used | Basic verification (email, SMS, IP) | PKI cryptography with certificates |
| Security Level | Good for most business needs | Highest security with encryption |
| Tamper Detection | Audit trail only | Cryptographic proof |
| Ease of Use | Very Easy | Complex Setup |
| Cost | $15-50/month | $100+/month + certs |
The Bottom Line
For 95% of businesses, secure e-signatures like BoopSign provide all the protection you need at a fraction of the cost and complexity. Digital signatures are overkill unless you're in heavily regulated industries or dealing with extremely sensitive documents.
What is an Electronic Signature (E-Signature)?
An electronic signature is any digital method of indicating your intent to sign a document or agreement. It's the broad umbrella term that includes everything from typing your name at the end of an email to using sophisticated signing platforms like BoopSign.
E-signatures focus on ease of use and accessibility while still providing legal validity. They've become the standard for business contracts, proposals, HR documents, and everyday agreements because they're fast, convenient, and legally compliant.
Common Types
Typed Names
Simply typing your name at the end of a document or email
Drawn Signatures
Drawing your signature with a mouse, stylus, or finger
Platform Signatures
Using tools like BoopSign with audit trails and verification
Pro Tip
Modern e-signature platforms bundle these methods with secure audit trails, making them both easy to use and legally bulletproof.
What is a Digital Signature?
A digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature that uses PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) cryptography to provide the highest level of security, authentication, and tamper detection.
Think of it as an electronic fingerprint that's mathematically bound to both the document and the signer. Any change to the document—even a single character—invalidates the signature, making forgery virtually impossible.
Certificate Issued
A trusted authority verifies your identity and issues a certificate.
Encrypted Hash
Your document is turned into a cryptographic hash and encrypted with your key.
Verification
Recipients use a public key to decrypt and verify the original hash hasn't changed.
6 Key Differences That Actually Matter
1. Security
E-signatures use audit trails and basic ID. Digital signatures use mathematical keys and certificates.
2. Tamper Detection
E-signatures track changes. Digital signatures detect alterations and break immediately if a comma is moved.
3. Ease of Use
E-signatures are "one click" simple. Digital signatures require certificate management and software setup.
4. Cost
E-signatures are affordable ($15/mo). Digital signatures are expensive and usually charged per user/year.
When Should You Use Each Type?
Use E-Signatures For...
- Business Contracts & Proposals
- HR Offer Letters & NDAs
- Rental & Lease Agreements
- Freelance Work Orders
Use Digital Signatures For...
- Government Contracts
- Financial Loan Documents
- HIPAA Medical Records
- International Notarized Docs
E-Signature vs Digital Signature: Your Questions Answered
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