Microsoft Edge is the default PDF reader in Windows 10, which is good, as it beats needing a third-party, free PDF reader software. But if you’re wondering how to change the default PDF reader, then we’re here to help out. This post will show you how to change the default PDF reader & viewer, which is Microsoft Edge Chromium browser, in Windows 10, to one, of your choice. The same procedure applies to Edge Legacy as well.
Change default PDF Viewer in Windows 10
Microsoft Edge is pretty good at being a PDF reader. If you are interested in basic reading, then Edge will suffice.
That being said, Windows is all about freedom of deciding what you want to use, so if Edge is not your cup of tea, there are several options out there, some of which are even better than Edge. So naturally, some folks will want to change Edge from being the default browser, and that’s fine, so let’s get down to it.
The procedure to change the default PDF reader is the same for changing any default program.
1] Via Control Panel
One way to get this done is by opening the Control Panel, then click on Programs > Default Programs > Set your default program. Wait for the programs to load, and then click on your favorite after. From there, it should be possible to set this program as the default.
2] Via Context Menu
To change the default PDF reader via Context Menu in Windows 10, follow the steps given below.
- Go to the location where you have a PDF file stored.
- Right-click on the PDF file
- Access ‘Open With’ option.
- Choose another app.
- A pop-up will appear with a list of programs that can open PDF files.
- Select a program of your choice.
- Check ‘Always use this app’ box.
Here’s the thing, there’s a chance your favorite PDF program may not show up on the list, so what then? Well, instead of clicking on “Choose another app” just click on “More apps” and it should show what you want to see.
3] Via Settings
Open Settings
Select Apps > Default apps
You may not be able to see the option to change the default PDF Viewer.
Scroll down and click on Choose default apps by file types, to open this page.
Locate PDF and click on Microsoft Edge which is the OS default.
Select the app you want and set it as the default
Hope this helps!
