Highlights review
A focused Apple PDF reader with strong research annotation and export tools.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Highlights is a PDF reader and annotation tool for researchers, students, academics, and others working with PDF documents. It runs on Mac, iPhone, and iPad, combining PDF reading, markup, notes, metadata editing, document scanning, OCR, citation lookup, and annotation extraction. Files can be stored on the device or through iCloud Drive and Dropbox. The free tier covers core reading and annotation, making Highlights suitable for Apple-based users who want a research-oriented PDF workflow without an upfront subscription.
Its strongest distinction is the depth of its research features. Pro adds citation lookup, DOI metadata retrieval, text and table recognition, and Smart Copy for images, tables, and citations. Multilingual OCR and table recognition extend the tool beyond simple highlighting, while annotation extraction turns marked passages into notes. Handoff supports movement across Apple devices, and dark mode plus custom accent colors provide interface options. These capabilities make Highlights a better fit for academic reading and source management than for users who only need basic PDF viewing.
The pricing structure keeps the core reader accessible. The Free plan includes reading and annotation, PDF metadata editing, Handoff, document scanning, dark mode, and PDF note exports. Pro Monthly costs $4.99 per month, while Pro Annual costs $29.99 per year; both unlock advanced features on iPhone, iPad, and Mac and add further note export formats. Highlights also connects with Ulysses, Evernote, DEVONthink, Keep It, nvALT, Bear, Bookends, Papers, iCloud Drive, and Dropbox. Choose it for an Apple-centered academic workflow with detailed extraction and export needs; choose another PDF reader if you require platforms beyond macOS and iOS or do not need research-specific tools.
Highlights pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Advanced OCR and table recognition support research workflows
- Exports notes to PDF, Markdown, HTML, TextBundle, and more
- Integrates with Ulysses, Bear, Bookends, Papers, and other tools
- Where it doesn't
- Advanced research features require a Pro subscription
- Available on macOS and iOS rather than broader platforms
- Free exports are limited to PDF format
Highlights fact sheet, pricing and score →
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