Windows 10 offers multiple options for viewing PDF files, with Microsoft Edge being the default choice. However, for those who frequently use Google Chrome and prefer its interface and functionality, switching the default PDF viewer to Chrome can create a more seamless user experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step to make this change with ease.
PDF files are a universal standard for sharing documents. They look consistent regardless of the device or software you’re using. While Windows 10 typically uses Microsoft Edge to open these files, many users find Google Chrome’s PDF functionality preferable. Let’s delve into how you can make Chrome your go-to PDF viewer.
Why Choose Google Chrome as a PDF Viewer?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand why one might opt for Google Chrome:-
- Familiarity: If you’re an avid Chrome user, keeping your PDFs within the same browser can make things simpler.
- Integrated Tools: Chrome offers a range of tools for viewing and interacting with PDFs, such as zoom, print, and save functions, all within a familiar interface.
- Cross-Platform Consistency: Chrome ensures that your PDFs look and function the same, whether you’re viewing them on a PC, Mac, or mobile device.
Setting Google Chrome as Your Default PDF Viewer
Method 1: Using the Context Menu
Step 1. Ensure Google Chrome is installed. If not, download it from the official Chrome website.
Step 2. Locate a PDF file on your PC. You can search in File Explorer or use any PDF you have.
Step 3. Right-click the PDF file to reveal the context menu.
Step 4. Hover over “Open with” to see a list of applications.
Step 5. Select “Choose another app.”
Step 6. From the list of apps, find and select “Google Chrome.”
Step 7. Check the box that reads, “Always use this app to open .pdf files.”
Step 8. Click “OK.”
Step 9. Test your changes by opening a PDF file. It should launch in Chrome.
Method 2: Via Windows 10 Settings
Step 1. Open the Windows 10 Settings application.
Step 2. Navigate to Apps.
Step 3. On the left sidebar, choose “Default apps.”
Step 4. On the right, click “Choose default apps by file type.”
Step 5. Locate “.pdf” in the list, and click on the current default app next to it (likely “Microsoft Edge”).
Step 6. From the pop-up list, select “Google Chrome.”
Step 7. Exit out of Settings.
Step 8. Double-click a PDF file to ensure it opens in Chrome.
Conclusion
Switching your default PDF viewer to Google Chrome in Windows 10 can be accomplished through two methods: by using the context menu for an individual file or through the Windows 10 settings. Both methods are simple and take only a few steps. After setting Google Chrome as your default, any PDF file you open on your computer or access online should automatically launch in Google Chrome, providing you with a consistent and familiar PDF viewing experience.
