How to Change the Default PDF Reader in Windows 10

Last Updated: Feb 13, 2024 by

PDFs are a popular file format for sharing documents, but not all PDF readers are created equal. If you’re not satisfied with the default PDF reader in Windows 10, you can easily change it to a different program. In this article, we’ll show you how to change the default PDF reader in Windows 10 and recommend some of the best PDF readers for this operating system.

Why Change the Default PDF Reader?

The default PDF reader in Windows 10 is Microsoft Edge, which may not have all the features you need for viewing and editing PDFs. By changing the default PDF reader, you can choose a program that better suits your needs and preferences. This can save you time and frustration when working with PDFs.

How to Change the Default PDF Reader in Windows 10

To change the default PDF reader in Windows 10, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
  2. Click on “Apps” and then select “Default apps” from the left menu.
  3. Scroll down and click on “Choose default apps by file type.”
  4. Find “.pdf” in the list of file types and click on the current default program (likely Microsoft Edge).
  5. Select the PDF reader you want to use from the list of available programs.

Best PDF Readers for Windows 10

If you’re looking for a new PDF reader for Windows 10, here are some of the best options:

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC is a popular choice for viewing and editing PDFs. It offers a wide range of features, including the ability to fill out and sign forms, add comments and annotations, and convert PDFs to other file formats. It also has a user-friendly interface and is regularly updated with new features and security patches.

Foxit Reader

Foxit Reader is a lightweight and fast PDF reader that offers many of the same features as Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. It also has a customizable interface and the ability to create and edit PDFs. Foxit Reader is a great option for those who want a powerful PDF reader without the extra features and bulk of Adobe Acrobat.

Nitro PDF Reader

Nitro PDF Reader is another popular choice for Windows 10 users. It offers a range of features, including the ability to create, edit, and convert PDFs. It also has a user-friendly interface and is regularly updated with new features and security patches.

How to Set a Different Default PDF Reader

If you want to change the default PDF reader to a program that is not listed in the “Choose default apps by file type” menu, you can do so by following these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app and go to “Apps” > “Default apps.”
  2. Scroll down and click on “Choose default apps by file type.”
  3. Scroll down to “.pdf” and click on the current default program.
  4. Click on “More apps” and select the program you want to use.

Conclusion

Changing the default PDF reader in Windows 10 is a simple process that can greatly improve your experience when working with PDFs. By choosing a program that meets your needs and preferences, you can save time and frustration and make working with PDFs more efficient. Consider trying out some of the recommended PDF readers to find the one that works best for you.

Gulrukh Ch

About the Author: Gulrukh Ch

Gulrukh Chaudhary, an accomplished digital marketer and technology writer with a passion for exploring the frontiers of innovation. Armed with a Master's degree in Information Technology, Gulrukh seamlessly blends her technical prowess with her creative flair, resulting in captivating insights into the world of emerging technologies. Discover more about her on her LinkedIn profile.