How to Fix Gray Email Button in Adobe Acrobat 2019
Question details
The user is unable to send a PDF via email directly from Adobe Acrobat 2019 because the email button remains inactive (grayed out) despite setting a default email client.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat 2019
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to use the built-in Mail feature to send a PDF document as an email attachment with a single click.
- Observed behavior
- The email button is grayed out and unresponsive, preventing the user from utilizing the direct email sharing functionality.
Verify that a desktop email client (such as Microsoft Outlook or Mozilla Thunderbird) is installed on your computer and properly configured as the system's default email application.
Install a Custom Acrobat Script for Quick File Send
Since the gray email button is a known issue in Acrobat 2019, installing a custom JavaScript tool can manually restore the one-click file sending functionality.
Many users have experienced this bug where Acrobat 2019 fails to recognize the system's default email client. A popular and effective workaround is using a free, custom-made Adobe script that bypasses the native bug and adds a functioning 'Quick File Send' button to your toolbar.
Search for and download a trusted custom Adobe script designed for Acrobat/Reader 2019, such as the 'Quick File Send Button' JavaScript file (.js).
Navigate to the installation directory of Adobe Acrobat on your computer and find the 'JavaScripts' folder (typically located at C:\Program Files (x86)\Adobe\Acrobat DC\Acrobat\JavaScripts).
Copy and paste the downloaded .js file into the JavaScripts folder. You may need administrator permissions to complete this action.
Close Adobe Acrobat completely and reopen it. You should now see the new Quick File Send option available in your toolbar or Add-on menu.
Report the Bug to Adobe UserVoice
Report the persistent issue directly to Adobe's development team so they can investigate and release an official patch in future updates.
Send PDFs in One Click with WPS Office
Avoid dealing with grayed-out buttons and complex script installations. WPS Office features a robust, built-in PDF reader and editor that flawlessly integrates with your system's email client, allowing you to share PDFs instantly with just one click.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your computer.
- 2. Open your PDF document: Launch WPS PDF and open the document you wish to send via email.
- 3. Access the share menu: Click on the 'Share' or 'Email' icon located conveniently in the top toolbar.
- 4. Send the email: Your default email client will automatically open with the PDF attached, ready for you to enter the recipient's address and hit send.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the email button grayed out in Acrobat 2019?
This is a known bug in Acrobat 2019 where the software fails to properly detect the default email client configured in your operating system's settings, resulting in an inactive or grayed-out Mail button.
How do I set a default email client in Windows 10/11?
Go to Windows Settings > Apps > Default apps. Scroll down to the 'Email' section and select your preferred desktop email application (such as Outlook or Mail) from the list.
Can I share my PDF without using a desktop email client?
Yes. You can manually save the PDF document to your local drive, open your preferred webmail service (like Gmail or Yahoo) in your browser, compose a new email, and attach the saved PDF file.
Are custom Adobe scripts safe to use?
Custom scripts from reputable sources or official Adobe community forums are generally safe. However, always ensure you download JavaScript files (.js) from trusted developers to avoid security risks.
