Even after 25 years, PDFs are still popular and are treated as one of the main file formats on the internet. If you are trying to open an eBook or a research paper, it will be in PDF format.
To open and view a PDF file, you need a PDF reader. The good thing is there are plenty of PDF readers available out there. You just have to choose the one with the right features. To save you time and effort, we have handpicked some of the best PDF readers for Windows for you.
Also read: 11 Best LaTeX Editors You Should Use
List of Top PDF Readers for Windows
The PDF readers listed below can be used to view, create, and edit PDF files. Go through the details and pick the one that is most appropriate for you.
1. Adobe Acrobat (Reader & Pro)
When choosing a quality PDF reader, Adobe is the first brand that comes to our mind. Adobe offers two of the best PDF reading solutions. One is called Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is a free tool, and another one is Adobe Acrobat Pro.
With the help of Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can view, sign, comment, and share your PDF files for free. On the other hand, Adobe Acrobat Pro is a paid PDF reader with plenty of useful features. The Pro version allows you to read, edit, create, and even convert your PDF files. Besides that, you can use the tool to sign and share your PDF documents with others. You can also access Adobe Acrobat Pro from your mobile device.
2. Foxit Reader
Foxit Reader provides solutions for all your PDF needs. You can use it to create, share and secure all your PDF files on the cloud. It also allows you to create PDFs and convert files of other formats into PDF form. From Word documents to excel sheets to PowerPoint presentations, you can convert all of this into PDF format. You can even combine multiple PDF files to create a single new file.
To collaborate with someone, you can grant and revoke access, view their activity, tracks who are viewing the documents, and much more. It also enables you to comment, edit, and notify readers about the new updates that you make to the PDF documents. To keep your PDF files secure, you can take advantage of the security features provided by Foxit. It uses passwords, encryption, and digital signatures to keep your files safe.
3. Browsers like Edge, Firefox, Chrome
In case you didn’t realize this yet, but your browsers like Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and even Safari come with integrated PDF readers. If you are using any of these browsers, you can easily open and view a PDF file from your browser. All you have to do is click on the PDF link.
You can also open the PDF files that are already saved on your device. For this, you need to drag the file to the browser tab. The integrated PDF reader in your browser also includes features like download, rotate, adjust text size, and print. You can rely on your browser’s PDF reader if you don’t want to do anything more than just viewing the PDF file.
4. Soda PDF
This is one of the best PDF readers to read visual documents like comic books, catalogs, and magazines. It is designed to provide an easy-to-use PDF reader. You can use this PDF tool to edit, convert, merge, compress, sign & secure your PDF documents with just a few clicks.
The best thing about this PDF reader is that it can be used across various devices. It allows you to access your files offline and online on any platform, including your PC, Google Drive, Dropbox, and others. You should be informed that this is a paid PDF reader. However, you can subscribe to their trial period to find out whether you like it or not.
5. Nitro Reader
Nitro Reader comes with many advanced features that make it an ideal choice for both individuals and businesses. The platform has a very sleek and intuitive interface. It gives you access to a wide range of tools to review, convert, secure, create, and share PDF files. Creating new PDF files is very easy, and it can be done with the help of the drag and drop feature.
With the help of this PDF reader, you can sign, edit, and comment on your PDF files. You can also use this tool to combine PDF and other files. All these features make this PDF reader a highly efficient one. Nitro Reader uses QuickSign to secure PDF documents. Before you get the paid version, you can sign up for the trial period.
6. Slim PDF
If you want a free quality PDF reader, Slim PDF could be a good option for you. Using this tool, you can open and view your PDF documents, add comments, digital signatures, and more. An all-new user interface with light and dark theme support. This PDF reader comes with better and improved navigation to give you a simplified PDF viewing experience. It includes a wide range of customizable annotation tools that you will find useful.
Slim PDF allows for instant interactive PDF signature verification and form filling. With the help of this tool, you can easily convert your PDF files into Word documents, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. Not just that, but you can also create a PDF file in printable format. This PDF reader is packed with features and is one of the best ones you will find out there.
7. PDF-XChange Editor
This is one of the fastest and feature-rich PDF viewers you will find on the market. You can use this tool to view, edit, create, annotate, and digitally sign PDF files. Besides all the basic features, you will find other advanced options like attaching audio, attach files, highlight words, and more.
One feature that is worth mentioning is the Optical Character Recognition Tool. This feature can help scan printed documents and convert the text into a searchable document. If you work with PDF documents a lot, you will find this software useful.
8. Sumatra PDF
Sumatra PDF is a simple PDF file reader. Although it lacks many advanced features, it is still worth a try. It comes with a very simple user interface, so you can use the tool with ease. This PDF reader is designed to give you a very fast and intuitive experience.
The best thing about this tool is the multiple viewing modes like the book, single page, shortcuts, and presentation. This helps you to navigate through any PDF file you want. If you want a PDF reader for just reading PDF documents, this could be a good choice.
Conclusion
With these PDF readers, you can open and view any PDF file you want. Some of these PDF readers are loaded with features and can do much more than just reading and viewing the file.
Also read: 11 Best ePub Readers for Windows & macOS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is PDF?
PDF stands for the Portable Document Format. It is used to display documents in an electronic form independent of the hardware, software, or operating system they are viewed on.
What are some of the Best Free PDF Readers?
If you want a PDF reader for free, you should use Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit PDF Reader, and PDF-XChange Editor.
Is it Safe to Open a PDF Document in a Browser?
As long as the PDF file want to view is not infected, it is safe to open in your browser.
Is it Safe to Download Adobe Acrobat Reader?
Adobe Acrobat Reader is safe to download as long as you are doing it from the Adobe website.
Does Windows 10 have a PDF Reader?
Windows 10 has an in-built Reader app for viewing PDF files. Right-click on the PDF document you want to view and then click the option “Open with” and select the Reader app.
