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Change your default PDF viewer to Adobe Acrobat Reader
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Are your PDFs opening in Edge, Chrome, or Preview instead of Adobe Reader? If you prefer Adobe Reader, there's an easy way to make it your default PDF viewer. This wikiHow teaches you how to set Adobe Acrobat Reader as your default PDF app in Windows and macOS.

Things You Should Know

  • Windows: Right-click a PDF, select Open with > Choose another app , select Adobe Acrobat Reader, then choose "Always use this app to open .pdf files."
  • Mac: Ctrl + Click a PDF, select File > Get Info , select Adobe Acrobat Reader, and then choose Change All .
Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Windows (File Explorer)

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  1. An easy way to do this is to press Win + E .
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  3. A context menu will appear.
  4. Another menu will expand.
  5. Even if you have Acrobat Reader showing as one of the option, you should still select this option.
  6. Adobe Acrobat Reader is now your PDF default viewer.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Windows (Settings App)

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  1. It’s either a magnifying glass or a circle to the right of the Start menu.
  2. A list of matches will appear.
  3. The current default app appears to the right.
  4. A list of apps will appear.
  5. Adobe Acrobat Reader is now the default PDF viewer.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Mac

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  1. A menu will appear.
  2. A confirmation message will appear.
  3. Adobe Reader is now your default PDF viewer.
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