Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 10 is a useful skill, especially if you prefer using a specific application for PDFs. This quick guide will walk you through changing your default PDF viewer with ease, ensuring that your chosen app opens all your PDF files. Let’s get started!
Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 10 is straightforward. Follow these steps, and in no time, you’ll be opening your PDFs with your preferred application.
Start by clicking the Start menu and selecting Settings.
The Settings menu is your gateway to customizing various aspects of your Windows experience. It’s easy to find; just click the gear icon in the Start menu.
In the Settings menu, click on Apps.
This section lets you manage all your installed applications and their settings. It’s where you can change default apps for various file types.
Select Default apps from the left-hand pane.
Here, you’ll see a list of default applications for web browsing, email, and more, including your current PDF viewer.
Scroll down and click on the current default PDF viewer, then choose your preferred application from the list.
If your preferred app isn’t listed, you might need to download it first. Windows will give you a list of apps that can open PDF files.
After selecting your preferred app, close the Settings menu.
Your chosen application is now set as the default for opening PDF files. Any PDF you open will automatically use this app.
After you complete these steps, Windows 10 will use your chosen application to open all PDF files by default. This change makes managing your PDFs much more convenient.
You may need to install or update your application. Check if the app is correctly installed.
Right-click the file, select Open with, and choose your preferred app. Check the box to make it the default.
Follow the same steps and choose the original application from the list.
Yes, browsers like Chrome or Edge can be set as the default PDF viewer.
Admin users can change settings for all users through Group Policy or similar tools.
Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 10 is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your productivity. Whether you prefer using Adobe Acrobat, Foxit Reader, or even a web browser, setting your favorite app as the default ensures a seamless experience when opening PDF files. Following the steps outlined, along with the provided tips, will help you quickly and easily make this change.
For those who frequently work with PDFs, this adjustment can save time and reduce frustration. If you encounter any issues, the FAQ section should help troubleshoot common problems. Remember, keeping your PDF viewer updated is crucial for avoiding technical glitches and ensuring a smooth reading experience.
Feel free to explore further reading or tutorials on customizing other default apps in Windows 10. Your feedback is valuable, so let us know if this guide helped or if there are other topics you’d like us to cover. Thanks for reading, and happy PDF viewing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.