How to Set a Default Printer in Adobe Acrobat Reader
Question details
The user wants to configure a specific default printer to be used automatically when printing from Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Printing PDF documents directly from the application.
- Observed behavior
- Adobe Acrobat Reader strictly uses the default printer configured in the Windows operating system and lacks a separate, application-specific setting to override this behavior.
Ensure that your preferred physical or virtual printer is powered on, properly connected to your computer, and functioning correctly with up-to-date drivers.
Change the Default Printer in Windows System Settings
Since Adobe Acrobat Reader relies entirely on your operating system's default printer, changing the default printer in Windows will automatically update it for Acrobat Reader.
Acrobat Reader is designed to be consistent with the Windows standard, meaning it defers to the system's printer hierarchy. Changing this setting will ensure your preferred printer is selected automatically when you print a PDF.
Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings, or press the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
Click on 'Devices' from the settings menu, then select 'Printers & scanners' from the left-hand navigation pane.
Scroll down and uncheck the box that says 'Let Windows manage my default printer' to prevent the OS from automatically changing your default based on recent usage.
Click on your desired printer from the list, select 'Manage', and then click the 'Set as default' button.
Manually Select Your Printer Per Document
If you do not want to alter your system-wide default printer, you can manually choose your preferred physical or virtual printer each time you print a PDF file.
Print PDF Documents Effortlessly with WPS Office
WPS Office includes a feature-rich, built-in PDF reader and editor that provides a smooth and straightforward printing experience. You can easily manage your printing preferences and select your desired hardware without hassle.
- 1. Open your PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open your target PDF file directly within the WPS PDF viewer.
- 2. Access the print menu: Click on 'Menu' in the top-left corner and select 'Print', or simply press Ctrl + P.
- 3. Choose your printer: In the print interface, select your preferred printer from the 'Name' drop-down list.
- 4. Execute the print job: Configure your page sizing, ranges, and orientation, then click the 'Print' button.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Acrobat Reader always default to 'Microsoft Print to PDF'?
If 'Microsoft Print to PDF' (or any other virtual printer) is set as your default printer in your Windows system settings, Acrobat Reader will automatically default to it. You need to change the default printer in your Windows Settings to resolve this.
Can I set an independent default printer exclusively for Adobe Acrobat Reader?
No. Currently, Adobe Acrobat Reader does not support an application-specific default printer setting. It operates consistently with the Windows OS standard, meaning it will always mirror your system's default printer.
How do I change the default printer for Acrobat Reader on a Mac?
Just like on Windows, Acrobat Reader on macOS utilizes the system default. To change it, navigate to Apple menu > System Settings > Printers & Scanners, and choose your preferred hardware from the 'Default printer' drop-down menu.
Will an app-specific default printer feature be added in the future?
While it is a frequently requested feature, Adobe has maintained that utilizing the operating system's default printer provides a more consistent user experience across different applications. You can submit feature requests directly through Adobe's official feedback forms.
