A PDF handler is just a fancy-pants term for “a program you use to open PDF files.” Perhaps the best-known PDF handler is Adobe Acrobat Reader, but it is not your only option and I no longer recommend it. Adobe used to be the best and safest PDF viewer, but it has fallen from grace. Adobe commonly sneaks in bloatware with its software, and has gotten in trouble with the government for its deceptive sales tactics.
So let’s go over other PDF Handler options, so you can make an informed choice:
Just Use Your Browser
For basic PDF viewing, you don’t need extra software. Out of the box, any new computer is going to automatically open PDFs in whatever web browser it has installed. That can be Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Apple Safari, DuckDuckGo Browser, the Brave Browser, and on and on, all major browsers can be your PDF handler.
If you need to change your PDF handler to your browser on a PC:
- Find a PDF file and right-click it
- Float over “Open With” and then click “Choose another app”
- Select the app you want as your handler and click the Always button at the bottom
If you need to change your PDF handler to your browser on a Mac:
- Find a PDF file and right-click (or Control-click) it
- Click “Get Info”
- Find the “Open With” section and use its drop-down menu to select your handler app
- Click Change All, then click Continue
Install A Free PDF Viewer
There are other, free programs out there for PDF viewing and more. Consider these safe alternatives:
If you need editing ability, these companies may offer you some paid options that are priced better than Adobe’s plans. However, I usually discourage paying for PDF modification, and steer people towards free online editing tools.
