Microsoft PDF Viewer for PC: How to Change Default PDF Reader in Windows 10

In Windows 10, Microsoft Edge is set as the default PDF viewer, which can be convenient but also limiting for many users. If you're one of those who prefer to use their preferred web browsers or installed desktop applications to view PDF files, you'll be pleased to know that changing the default PDF reader in Windows 10 is relatively easy.

There are several reasons why users might want to disable Microsoft Edge as the default PDF reader. For instance, some users may not be happy with the built-in PDF reader's features and prefer to use a different application to view their PDF files. Others may simply want to use their preferred web browser to access PDF files instead of being forced to open them in Microsoft Edge.

One of the main drawbacks of using Microsoft Edge as the default PDF viewer is that it provides only limited access controls and lacks some convenient features, such as sending a PDF file as an attachment with Outlook. Additionally, users may find it frustrating to work around Microsoft Edge's limitations when trying to view or edit PDF files.

Fortunately, there are several ways to change the default PDF reader in Windows 10. Here are three simple methods you can try:

Method 1: Change Default PDF Reader Using File Context Menu

To change the default PDF viewer using the file context menu, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on a PDF file.

2. Select 'Open with' from the drop-down menu.

3. Click on 'Choose another app' to select a different application to open the PDF file.

Method 2: Change Default PDF Reader Via Control Panel

Alternatively, you can change the default PDF viewer via the Control Panel:

1. Go to the Start menu and search for 'Control Panel.'

2. Open the Control Panel and click on 'Programs' or 'Default Programs.'

3. Click on 'Associate a file type or protocol with a program.'

4. Select 'PDF files' from the list of file types.

5. Click on 'Change' to select a different application as the default PDF viewer.

Method 3: Change Default PDF Reader Via Settings

The third method involves changing the default PDF viewer through Windows settings:

1. Go to the Start menu and search for 'Settings.'

2. Open the Settings app and click on 'System.'

3. Click on 'Default apps' from the left-hand menu.

4. Select 'PDF Viewer' from the list of apps.

5. Click on 'Choose a default PDF viewer' and select a different application as the default PDF viewer.

By following one or more of these methods, you can easily change the default PDF reader in Windows 10 to your preferred application.

Microsoft pdf viewer for pc