Dropbox Sign vs. Docusign for Developers

From managing bank accounts to buying concert tickets, most activities can now be performed from the comfort of your home. Thanks to the eSignature technology, users can even sign legally binding documents from wherever they are.

However, signing documents online doesn't come without risks. If you aren't careful about the tool that you choose, your documents can be forged, scams can occur, and signatures can be challenging to verify for authenticity.

If you're in the market for an eSignature solution, you've probably heard about Dropbox Sign and DocuSign. Both products provide legally binding eSignature features that comply with regulations in the United States and the European Union. In this blog, we’ll explore a detailed comparison of these two tools, focusing on their features, APIs, ease of use, and pricing.

Let's jump right in.
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Dropbox Sign and DocuSign provide users with flexible options for signing documents (*ie* typing, drawing, or uploading an image of their signature). Both tools also seamlessly integrate with third-party applications and services, like Google Drive, Salesforce, and Microsoft Office, and include ID verification options to ensure a secure signing process. They also have a few other features in common, including reusable templates and eID verification, which you'll learn more about next.
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Embedding signature frames

The Dropbox Sign signature field enables users to sign documents, and it seamlessly redirects users to the Dropbox Sign platform during the process. Here's an example of a signature field manually added to a template using the Dropbox Sign web platform:

If you choose to use the Dropbox Sign Create Embedded Signature Request API you can add an iFrame to your app that handles your users' signatures internally so your users don't have to leave the app to complete the signing process.

The corresponding DocuSign Embedded Signing API also supports the same signing methods (*ie* drawing, typing, or uploading an image) and provides a highly customizable workflow:

While the DocuSign signature field provides several personalization options, its setup can be difficult for new users. Using the Embedded Signature API is also a more intricate process as DocuSign handles documents, signatures, and iFrames through envelopes which require an additional API call to be set up.
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The template feature of Dropbox Sign and DocuSign allows you to quickly generate documents with reusable static information while offering customizable fields that can be tailored to the intended recipient. This allows you to customize your message using several parameters. For example, you can add a specific subject or message text for your email or add form fields to specify where you need additional information. You can also add an array of signer roles, which is particularly useful for multi-signing documents as it helps the reader identify where they need to sign.

With Dropbox Sign, you can create templates using the Dropbox Sign Create Template API via code, like curl, or you can use their web platform, which is easier to use as it allows you to design your document quickly with immediate results:

Similarly, DocuSign also lets its users create templates using their Create Templates API or, manually, using their web console:

DocuSign offers a template creation system with a range of customization options. For example, it includes advanced features like conditional fields which allow fields to be enabled or disabled based on specified conditions, and conditional routes which direct documents to different recipients depending on the data provided.

If you have existing templates in DocuSign, you can easily migrate them to Dropbox Sign using the template migration feature. With this feature, you can upload DocuSign templates to your Dropbox Sign account and they will be automatically imported into Dropbox Sign.

While these advanced features offer significant control, they also come with some drawbacks. The customization process can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you're simply looking for standard eSignature functions. Additionally, navigating through the various options to fully configure your workflow can be time-consuming and requires a higher learning curve, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a simpler, more streamlined experience.
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eID

Another essential part of the eSignature process is electronic ID (eID) verification. eID verification is a digital solution that helps authenticate online signatures using the signer's proof of identity. This feature is crucial for ensuring documents are legally binding. That is why both DocuSign and Dropbox Sign have implemented it. However, there are some differences in how each platform integrates the feature.

Different countries have varying requirements and formats. This makes it challenging to confirm an ID's validity or create an algorithm that works for all documents. For the highest level of compatibility, Dropbox Sign partners with Qualified Trust Service Providers (QTSP) in different countries to provide a streamlined eID verification process. QTSP also have localized expertise that understands the electronic ID regulations in different regions. This ensures that the feature's methods and algorithms are conformant and legally recognized in multiple countries.

The Dropbox Sign eID verification is enabled when using the Dropbox Sign Signature Request API. The level of reliability offered by Dropbox complies with the electronic IDentification, Authentication, and trust Services (eIDAS) to ensure the maximum level of security. Several types of ID are supported—from mobile ID solutions to regular government-issued ID documents.

The Dropbox Sign smooth API integration process allows developers to easily implement eID verification in their apps and websites. It also helps maintain an interface that is as efficient, secure, and reliable as it is intuitive and user-friendly, which is a crucial aspect given the complex nature of ID upload and verification.

DocuSign also provides a robust eID feature but its approach is slightly different. Unlike Dropbox Sign, which emphasizes partnerships with QTSPs, DocuSign primarily relies on its own framework for legal compliance. This approach can cause less recognition in certain countries. Importantly, further research regarding local requirements for compliance is crucial. For example, companies that operate across borders should research whether the built-in eID verification feature of DocuSign assures legal validity in the pertinent foreign country.

Compared to Dropbox Sign, DocuSign often requires more manual configuration to fully meet specific standards. DocuSign's eID feature can be integrated into templates for documents requiring a high level of security and trust. It comes with a comprehensive number of verification methods, including SMS and knowledge-based authentication (KBA). All these can be managed during the incorporation process. However, some tasks can be more time-consuming for long documents with multiple singers (*eg* configuring a verification type for each signer or spending time adjusting the signing order). Additionally, the process is not as intuitive as its Dropbox counterpart. Nevertheless, DocuSign is still highly valued and compliant with most global standards. This includes eIDAS, which ensures the document's legal validity across the EU and supports various methods of electronic identification.
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SDK

Other than the APIs that both Dropbox Sign and DocuSign offer, each company also has an SDK that supports various programming languages, including Java, PHP, and Python. These native SDKs can make the implementation of eSignatures into your application easy and fast as they handle most of the code behind the scenes.

The Dropbox Sign API is straightforward, and its SDK is no different. It allows users to perform the most common actions, from integrating embedded signature requests to creating templates and eSignature requests, all with minimal effort. The Dropbox Sign SDK also facilitates interaction with most of the Dropbox Sign API endpoints with prebuilt functions that save you from manually integrating them into your code. This means that your team won't have to write code for each API call as it's handled behind the scenes. For example, initiating a signature request requires one single function. This is in contrast to DocuSign, which requires at least two functions: one to create an envelope and one to perform the signature request.

In contrast, the DocuSign SDK includes most of the features provided by the API. It also supports a wide range of programming languages, including Swift for iOS. DocuSign excels in performance and customization, making it ideal for teams seeking advanced capabilities. However, as mentioned before, these advanced features come with added complexity, and navigating through the options may require more time and longer lines of code.
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Ease of use

Dropbox Sign is widely praised for its simple and intuitive interface, from its web-based product to its API. Primary tasks, such as creating templates, embedding signatures, or managing documents, are all straightforward. They can all be performed with one API call or SDK function. With fewer endpoints and minimal configuration, Dropbox Sign allows you to set up signers and documents in a single API call. This is unlike DocuSign, which requires multiple steps. This ease of use makes Dropbox Sign accessible even to non-developers.

As mentioned previously, DocuSign is not as focused on ease of use as it thrives in handling complex use cases. The very nature of the interface is to provide several layers of customization in the eSigning process. The DocuSign platform is rich in features. However, this comes with a price: the features take longer to master and implement.
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Pricing is a key factor when choosing the right eSignature platform for your needs. Dropbox Sign is widely recognized for offering flexible, transparent pricing that delivers exceptional value, especially for businesses seeking powerful features at a competitive cost. Here’s an overview of how Dropbox Sign compares to DocuSign, with links to explore their pricing in detail.
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Dropbox Sign Web App

Dropbox Sign provides simple, straightforward plans designed for individuals, small teams, and growing businesses. The Essentials, Standard, and Premium plans cater to diverse needs, from basic eSignature functionality to advanced team management features. With Dropbox Sign, you can expect affordable, user-friendly options that scale as your business grows.

For a closer look at Dropbox Sign's web-based pricing, visit the Dropbox Sign Pricing Page.
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Dropbox Sign API

For businesses integrating eSignature capabilities into their workflows, Dropbox Sign’s API offers flexible plans that accommodate various usage levels. Whether you’re managing moderate volumes or require a custom solution for high-volume needs, Dropbox Sign’s API delivers cost-effective options without compromising on functionality or ease of integration.

Explore Dropbox Sign’s API pricing on the Dropbox Sign API Pricing Page.
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DocuSign Web

DocuSign provides several pricing tiers for web-based eSignature services, including options for individuals and teams. While comprehensive, these plans can feel less tailored and more costly for businesses focused on maximizing value.

Learn more about DocuSign’s web-based pricing on the DocuSign Pricing Page.
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DocuSign API

DocuSign’s API is suitable for organizations with complex eSignature needs. However, pricing is typically higher and often less transparent, requiring custom quotes for many scenarios.

For additional details, visit the DocuSign API Pricing Page.
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Support and documentation

The Dropbox Sign API documentation reflects the same characteristics discussed in earlier sections: it's simple and accessible for developers with any level of experience. Its API guides, SDKs, and FAQ are designed to minimize developer frustration, offering practical solutions and quick-start guides that help users get up and running in no time. Dropbox Sign also provides responsive customer support for troubleshooting and guidance when needed.

The DocuSign documentation also reflects the same traits as its API. It has an extensive support system with FAQ and tutorials. It also has detailed guides on its features that are intended for a more advanced audience.
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Maturity and adaptation

DocuSign has been around since 2003, and it's easily the most mature library in its field. It holds a strong brand recognition and is widely adopted across industries. This explains why it has so many features and can fit even the most complex use case. 

Dropbox Sign has been around for a shorter period but has quickly gained popularity thanks to its user-friendly API and competitive pricing.
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Conclusion

Choosing between Dropbox Sign and DocuSign for developers can be tough as they are both valid resources for eSigning documents.

If ease of use and pricing are key considerations, Dropbox Sign should be your go to choice. While DocuSign offers advanced features and customization, Dropbox Sign provides many of the same capabilities at a more affordable price. Its intuitive interface and straightforward setup make it accessible to both developers and non-developers, offering a smooth and efficient eSigning experience without the complexity or high cost.