Zathura
Zathura: A free, open-source reader for keyboard-driven PDF and document workflows. Ranked #16 of 23 in PDF Readers by our editors (6.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for keyboard-driven Linux and macOS reading.
At a glance
- Editor score6.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forKeyboard-driven Linux and macOS reading
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Offline accessYes
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Keyboard navigation, search, bookmarks and quickmarks
- Plugin support for PDF, PostScript, DjVu and comic-book formats
- SyncTeX, encrypted-document handling and metadata tools
Where it doesn't
- Document support depends on separate plugins
- Configuration is handled through files
- Distribution centers on Linux and MacPorts for macOS
Our verdict on Zathura
Zathura is a free, open-source document viewer for readers who prefer keyboard-driven navigation and a minimal interface. It supports PDF, PostScript, DjVu and comic-book formats through separate plugins, making it suitable for Linux and macOS users who want one focused reader across several document types. Core reading tools include scrolling, zooming, link navigation, search, index browsing, bookmarks, quickmarks and automatic reloading when files change.
Its strongest fit is for technical reading and LaTeX-oriented workflows. SyncTeX synchronization connects source documents with their typeset output, while configurable shortcuts and visual settings allow file-based customization. The viewer can also open and print encrypted documents, export images and attachments, and display document metadata. An optional SQLite database backend adds a persistence option, and the published integrations include SQLite and tabbed.
Zathura keeps its scope narrow: the experience centers on efficient document viewing rather than a broad, graphical workspace. Support is tied to plugins, and configuration is handled through files, so it suits users comfortable with keyboard commands and text-based settings. Linux distribution packages and MacPorts provide the stated distribution paths. Choose Zathura for a lightweight, open-source reader with strong navigation and document-oriented tools; choose another product if your priority is a more visual configuration experience or a wider platform footprint.
Your product? Our editors can test Zathura in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Zathura pricing
Zathura fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Annotation tools | Yes |
| OCR support | None |
| Form filling | Not verified |
| Offline access | Yes |
| Text-to-speech | Not verified |
| Platform support | Cross-platform |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux, macOS |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | pwmt.org |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Zathura
- Foxit PDF ReaderA free cross-platform reader with collaboration, forms, signatures, and cloud integrations.9.4
- OkularA capable open-source desktop reader with annotations, forms, signatures and accessibility tools.9.2
- PreviewA capable free PDF reader for Apple users, with practical editing and signing tools.9.1
See all Zathura alternatives →
Used Zathura? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used Zathura for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
Write a reviewTwo minutes · verified accounts only · read by an editor before it appears
Featured on iTechGuides
Zathura is listed in our PDF Readers directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/zathura/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/zathura.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update