To change which app opens PDF files in Windows 11, open Settings > Apps > Default apps, search for .pdf, select the result, and choose an installed app. You can also start from an app’s Default apps page if you want to review the file types it can open.
Choose how to change the default
| Route | Best when |
|---|---|
| Search by file type | You know the extension you want to change, such as .pdf. |
| Start from an app | You know the app and want to inspect or change the file types it can open. |
| Open with | You want to choose an app for an individual file rather than change the system-wide default. |
Change the default PDF app in Settings
- Open Settings.
- Select Apps > Default apps.
- Search for
.pdf. - Select the
.pdfresult. - Choose the installed app you want to use for PDF files.
- If Windows asks you to confirm, follow the on-screen prompt.
Windows assigns apps to file types. Changing the .pdf association chooses which app Windows uses to open PDF files.
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Change the association from an app’s page
- Open Settings > Apps > Default apps.
- Select the app you want to use.
- Review the file and link types shown for that app.
- Select the relevant file type, such as
.pdf, and choose the preferred app.
This app-first route is useful when you already know which app you want and want to review its supported file types.
Choose an app for one PDF with Open with
For a one-time opening, use Windows’ Open with option instead of changing the system-wide default:
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- In File Explorer, right-click the PDF file.
- Select Open with > Choose another app.
- Choose an app on your PC.
The exact wording can vary by Windows version. Choosing an app this way is useful for an individual file; use Default apps to change the .pdf association for the file type.
If your preferred PDF app is not available
Windows offers apps for file types they can open. Check that the app is installed and supports PDFs. Adobe Acrobat Reader is one example of a PDF viewer, but you do not need to use it if another installed app meets your needs.
For protected PDFs, Microsoft documents that Edge can view certain protected files on Windows 11 when the relevant account, file, and version requirements are met. Consult Microsoft’s guidance for that specific scenario rather than assuming every protected PDF works the same way: View protected PDFs using Microsoft Edge.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.FAQ
How do I change which app opens PDFs in Windows 11?
Open Settings > Apps > Default apps, search for .pdf, select the result, and choose the app you want.
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Can I make Edge or Adobe Reader the default for PDFs?
Choose the app from the .pdf result in Default apps if Windows offers it for that file type. Microsoft names Adobe Acrobat Reader as one PDF-viewer example; Edge also supports viewing certain protected PDFs under specific requirements.
Does Open with change the default for every PDF?
Use Open with to choose an app for an individual file. To change the system-wide association, use Settings > Apps > Default apps and select .pdf.
Does changing the default convert or modify my PDF?
No. It changes which app opens the .pdf file type; it does not convert the PDF.
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