How To Change Default PDF Viewer Windows 11

Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 11 can greatly enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow. Did you know that by customizing your PDF viewer, you can easily open and view PDF documents with the application of your choice? This can be particularly helpful if you have specific preferences or requirements when it comes to reading and managing PDF files.

Windows 11 provides users with the flexibility to change their default PDF viewer to a program that better aligns with their needs and preferences. Whether you prefer Adobe Acrobat, Foxit Reader, or any other PDF reader, the process of changing the default PDF viewer is simple and straightforward. By following a few easy steps, you can ensure that your preferred PDF viewer becomes the default application for opening and viewing PDF files on your Windows 11 device. This allows for a seamless experience and greater efficiency when working with PDF documents.

How to Change Default PDF Viewer on Windows 11

Windows 11 offers a seamless and user-friendly environment for handling various file types, including PDFs. However, the default PDF viewer in Windows 11 may not always meet your specific needs or preferences. Fortunately, you can change the default PDF viewer on Windows 11 to a third-party application that provides advanced features and customization options. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing the default PDF viewer on Windows 11, allowing you to enhance your PDF viewing experience.

Using the Default Apps Settings

Windows 11 provides a simple method for changing default apps for various file formats, including PDF. Follow these steps to change the default PDF viewer using the default apps settings:

Changing the Default PDF Viewer in Windows 11

Windows 11 comes pre-installed with Microsoft Edge as the default PDF viewer. However, if you prefer using a different PDF viewer, you can change the default settings easily. Here's how:

Method 1: Changing Default Apps Settings

1. Open the "Settings" app by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.

2. Go to "Apps" and then click on "Default apps."

3. Scroll down and click on "Choose default apps by file type."

4. Locate the PDF file type and click on the current default app (most likely Microsoft Edge).

5. Select the PDF viewer you want to set as default from the list of available apps.

6. Close the Settings app.

Method 2: Changing Default App by File Association

1. Find a PDF file on your computer.

2. Right-click on the PDF file and select "Open with" followed by "Choose another app."

3. Choose the PDF viewer you want to use as the default app or click on "More apps" to see additional options.

4. Tick the box that says "Always use this app to open .pdf files."

By following these easy steps, you can change the default PDF viewer on your Windows 11 system. Whether you prefer Adobe Acrobat, Foxit Reader, or any other PDF viewer, you can customize your experience by setting it as the default app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 11.

1. How do I change the default PDF viewer in Windows 11?

To change the default PDF viewer in Windows 11, follow these steps:

- Right-click on a PDF file and select "Open with" from the drop-down menu.

- Click on "Choose another app" to view more options.

- Select the PDF viewer you want to set as the default, or click "More apps" to see additional choices.

- If the desired PDF viewer is not listed, click "Look for another app on this PC" to locate the executable file.

2. Can I change the default PDF viewer to a web-based application?

No, Windows 11 does not currently support setting a web-based PDF viewer as the default. You can only choose from the installed desktop applications.

3. How do I revert back to the original default PDF viewer?

To revert back to the original default PDF viewer in Windows 11, follow these steps:

- Right-click on a PDF file and select "Open with" from the drop-down menu.

- Click on the original default PDF viewer that you want to set as the default again.

4. Can I have multiple default PDF viewers in Windows 11?

No, Windows 11 only allows you to set one default PDF viewer. However, you can still choose a different PDF viewer for individual PDF files by using the "Open with" option.

5. What if I want to use a PDF viewer I downloaded from the internet?

If you downloaded a PDF viewer from the internet and want to set it as the default in Windows 11, follow these steps:

- Right-click on a PDF file and select "Open with" from the drop-down menu.

- Click on "Choose another app" and then click "Look for another app on this PC."

- Locate the executable file of the downloaded PDF viewer and select it.

Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 11 is a simple process that allows you to open and view PDF files with your preferred application. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can customize your viewing experience and streamline your workflow.

First, you need to go to the Settings menu by clicking on the Start button and selecting the gear icon. From there, navigate to the Apps section and click on the Default apps tab. Scroll down until you find the option for PDF viewer and click on it to choose your desired application. Finally, select your preferred PDF viewer from the list or click on the link to explore more options in the Microsoft Store.