Best free PDF readers (March 2023)
All the best free PDF readers for viewing documents
The finest PDF readers that come without any subscription charges or one-off fees are ideal for viewing documents, collaborating online, and making modifications to your PDF files.
Although using your browser is the simplest method to read a PDF online, its capabilities are often limited. To fully utilize your documents, whether online or offline, it may be worthwhile to spend some time researching the top PDF editors, free PDF editors, or specialized PDF reader software.
If you are a casual user seeking easy-to-use apps and platforms, PDF readers are the perfect solution. Additionally, the top free PDF readers are designed with advanced tools to cater to power-users. It’s recommended that you keep an eye out for features such as free PDF to Word converters, which give you more control over your documents.
There are numerous choices available when it comes to selecting a free PDF reader, and it can be difficult to determine which one is most suitable for your needs. To assist you in finding the appropriate tool for your tasks, we have evaluated a variety of options, examining factors such as performance when dealing with large files, cross-platform compatibility, and the inclusion of integrated cloud storage.
THE BEST FREE PDF READERS OF MARCH 2023
1. Adobe Acrobat Reader DC
Best free PDF reader overall
SPECIFICATIONS
- Operating system: Windows, macOS
REASONS TO BUY
- Multi-platform support
- Handles large PDFs with ease
- Tab view for multiple documents
REASONS TO AVOID
- Relatively large
- Regular ‘upgrade to Pro’ ads
- Some tools paywalled
Our top pick for the best free PDF reader overall is Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, which is available for Windows and Mac, and also has PDF reader apps for Android and iOS. However, despite its many features, we did find one major downside.
The primary aim of the leading PDF viewer is to provide you with two functions: the first one is to allow you to read and engage with PDF documents, which includes the ability to include comments and even sign a file.
The second objective is to persuade you to switch to the paid version of the software, which, as you may have already anticipated, offers a plethora of additional features such as the capacity to generate and modify PDF files.
Without the latter, Acrobat Reader would be a valuable addition to your software collection. It has a user-friendly interface, is easy to navigate, and includes essential functionalities for interacting with PDF files. Our review stated that “Adobe Acrobat Reader DC is an excellent choice for those seeking a free PDF viewer with the ability to manipulate documents.”
Regrettably, adware is pervasive in the realm of software. Prompts to “try now” and offers of powerful tools often lead to requests for payment before actual usage. Additionally, there is a prevalent “7-day trial” option. Although this tool has its merits, there are alternatives that are less intrusive.
2. Foxit PDF Reader
Perfect if you want to do more than just read PDFs
SPECIFICATIONS
- Operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Citrix
REASONS TO BUY
- Allows you to create PDFs
- Safe mode disables Javascript
- Lightweight download
REASONS TO AVOID
- Some features require extensions
Not only is Foxit PDF Reader a free PDF reader, but it also offers the ability to create PDFs from scratch. It seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Office, enabling you to convert the documents you’re working on into PDFs effortlessly. Alternatively, you can use Foxit Reader to transform a scanned document or image into a PDF. However, the only limitation of the free version is the lack of support for optical character recognition in scanned documents.
Although the software may seem intimidating initially, it’s relatively simple to navigate as it employs the familiar ribbon-style menu used in Microsoft Office. Accessing tools for editing, signing, highlighting, and commenting is fairly straightforward. Additionally, merging or splitting PDFs is possible by downloading free add-ons for the software.
Foxit PDF Reader has an additional benefit of providing security. With its Safe Reading mode, you can conveniently deactivate any Javascript that may be embedded in PDF files you download.
It should be noted that the most recent software update from Foxit appears to have eliminated its PDF virtual printer driver, resulting in the inability to utilize the software for PDF creation.
3. Slim PDF
A PDF reader that’s super fast and super lightweight
SPECIFICATIONS
- Operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux
REASONS TO BUY
- Small download size
- Loads extremely quickly
- Can convert file types
REASONS TO AVOID
- No editing features
If you’re seeking an exceptionally lightweight option, Slim PDF is the ideal free PDF reader. Its software download is remarkably small, making it a perfect choice for those with limited hard drive space. Furthermore, this results in faster opening and loading of documents compared to most competitors.
Although Slim PDF is compact, it is also limited in terms of functionality. While users can search and rotate documents, the software lacks features such as signing, filling, commenting, and highlighting, as well as various reading modes. Additionally, if one wishes to convert a PDF to a Word document, they will need to download additional software.
Slim PDF is essentially a PDF reader that performs exceptionally well in its designated function. By omitting toolbars that could divert your attention from the content, it provides a seamless reading experience. For individuals who regularly require PDF printing, Slim PDF is one of the quickest and most uncomplicated choices on the market.
4. Nitro PDF Reader
A feature-packed free PDF reader, full of handy tools
SPECIFICATIONS
- Operating system: Windows, macOS
REASONS TO BUY
- Touchscreen mode
- Plenty of annotation tools
- Simple ribbon-style menu
REASONS TO AVOID
- No document signing or filling
The Nitro PDF Reader is a robust PDF reader that is available for free, similar to Foxit Reader and Adobe Acrobat DC. What sets this software apart is its capability to operate in touchscreen mode, which is ideal for individuals who work on a tablet. Using touchscreen mode is particularly advantageous when reading e-books, as you can effortlessly flick through the pages rather than having to scroll or press a button.
Although Nitro Reader doesn’t have the ability to fill and sign PDFs, it facilitates collaboration effectively. The software enables document annotation by allowing users to underline, strikethrough, and highlight text. Additionally, comments can be easily added as sticky notes that are noticeable as you review a document. Nitro Reader also includes the convenient feature of converting between PDFs and other document formats.
Nitro Reader features a ribbon-style menu, which should be recognizable to those who are familiar with Microsoft Office. The menu is straightforward to navigate as it contains only a limited number of options.
5. PDF-XChange Editor
Perfect if you need a free PDF reader with built-in OCR
SPECIFICATIONS
- Operating system: Windows
REASONS TO BUY
- Optical character recognition
- Text editing
- Splits and extracts pages
REASONS TO AVOID
- Watermarks documents
- PC-only
PDF-XChange Editor isn’t just a free PDF reader; it’s also a free PDF editing software designed for Windows. Although its interface may be slightly more complex than other options, it provides convenient access to numerous helpful features.
PDF-XChange Editor is primarily utilized by many users due to its built-in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature. This feature enables the software to recognize the text within a photocopy PDF document and provide editing options. Additionally, PDF-XChange Editor allows users to reformat text and convert it into fonts that may not be pre-installed on their computers.
This platform offers the ability to merge or split individual PDF files. However, if you haven’t subscribed to the Pro version, a small watermark stating “Created with PDF-XChange Editor” will be added to the bottom of any PDF files that you export, which is the only significant drawback of this otherwise powerful editor.
6. pdfFiller
Best free PDF reader for viewing only
SPECIFICATIONS
- Operating system: Web, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
REASONS TO BUY
- Cross-platform with apps for online, on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
- Customer support is responsive
- Plenty of editing tools
- No sign-up to read PDFs
REASONS TO AVOID
- Full toolkit requires subscription
- Advanced tools may prove steeper learning curve than most
pdfFiller provides a straightforward and free PDF reader experience that is easy to use. Whether you access it through your browser or the Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS apps, it’s quick to upload your document and start reading. With no requirement for registration, you can view your files for free. This makes it an ideal choice if your needs are simple.
Although it may not be immediately apparent, the platform is actually a comprehensive PDF editor that boasts a wide range of additional functionalities for creating and editing documents, such as fillable forms, data redaction tools, online collaboration, digital signatures, and PDF converters. Following a rigorous evaluation process, we ultimately concluded that this platform is an incredibly versatile PDF document management system.
PdfFiller’s free service is limited to merely viewing PDFs, which can feel restrictive if you require additional functionality. While you can modify documents within the service, they are constrained to your dashboard and cannot be saved as PDF files. PdfFiller offers a decent range of features, but to utilize them fully, you will have to opt for one of their monthly or annual subscription plans, of which there are three. Additionally, enterprise licensing is available for teams of ten or more.
How to choose the best free PDF reader for you
To determine the most suitable PDF reader to use, start by identifying the specific parts of your PDF file that you intend to modify. If your goal is to simply add information to a digital form, a basic editor that allows for text insertion should suffice.
On the other hand, if you need to make significant changes to the content of the PDF, you’ll need a more powerful software program that can modify text or images that are already present in the document. Depending on the extent of the modifications you need to make, it may be more effective to opt for a fully-featured PDF editor or a PDF to Word converter, especially if you need to change nearly all of the content in the file.
What is a PDF reader?
A program designed for opening, viewing, and printing PDF (Portable Document Format) files is called a PDF reader. PDF files were initially introduced in the 1990s and have since been widely used for distributing documents that contain text, images, and various other media types.
Although most modern browsers are capable of reading PDF files, there is still a need for the best free PDF readers. These specialized applications provide users with more options to engage with the document and allow for greater customization of the file’s display on the screen.
PDF files were created with the intention of maintaining the same appearance and functionality across all types of hardware, which is why PDF readers are available for Android and other mobile devices.
Do I need a PDF editor or a PDF reader?
When it comes to choosing between a PDF editor and a PDF reader, your decision should be based on how you intend to use the software. Typically, PDF readers are intended for viewing documents, but many also offer online collaboration features such as commenting, highlighting, and annotating content. In contrast, making modifications to a PDF file is usually limited to minor edits and manipulation. On the other hand, a PDF editor is designed to enable you to design and create documents from the ground up, and make extensive modifications. PDF editors typically come with a wide range of powerful tools tailored for advanced users, such as built-in OCR software and digital signature tools.
Are free PDF readers safe?
Ensuring the security of your computer and obtaining PDF software from an authorized source is crucial for comprehensive protection. However, similar to various cost-free applications, there exist potential hazards. We have enumerated five typical explanations why complimentary PDF editors may not be the ideal option for your enterprise, and these difficulties may apply to free PDF readers as well. Additionally, we have investigated the principal distinctions between paid and free PDF editors.
Are free PDF readers worth it?
Free PDF readers provide a rich set of features for viewing and sharing PDF files, but their capabilities are usually somewhat constrained in comparison to their paid counterparts. Often, they serve as an introduction to the software’s functionality, with additional tools and features available through upgrades or subscriptions. If you only need to read PDFs on your computer or mobile device, a browser may suffice. However, if you frequently work with documents, make minor edits, or share files, a full-fledged PDF reader is likely to be the best fit for your needs.