How to Set Acrobat X as the Default PDF Application Instead of Reader DC
Question details
The user wants to set Adobe Acrobat X as the default application for viewing PDFs, but the system keeps reverting the default choice to Adobe Reader DC.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Opening PDF files on a computer that has both Acrobat X and Adobe Reader DC installed side by side.
- Observed behavior
- Windows repeatedly ignores the user's preference and opens PDF files in the newer Adobe Reader DC instead of the designated Acrobat X.
Ensure you have administrator privileges on your Windows computer, as changing system-wide default applications and modifying software installations requires admin access.
Set Default App via Windows Settings
Manually force the .pdf file extension to open with Acrobat X using the Windows Default Apps menu.
Because Adobe Reader DC is a newer application, it may automatically attempt to reclaim the default PDF association. You can override this behavior by explicitly setting the file type association within Windows Settings.
Press the Windows Key + I on your keyboard to open the Windows Settings menu, then click on 'Apps'.
In the left-hand sidebar, select 'Default apps', then scroll down to the bottom of the page and click the 'Choose default apps by file type' link.
Scroll through the alphabetical list of file extensions until you find '.pdf'. Click on the application currently listed next to it (likely Adobe Reader DC).
From the pop-up list of available applications, select 'Adobe Acrobat X' to set it as your new default PDF handler.
Resolve the Software Conflict by Removing One Application
Uninstall either Acrobat X or Reader DC to eliminate the side-by-side conflict causing the file association issue.
Set WPS Office as Your Default PDF Application
If Windows keeps reverting your default PDF settings due to Adobe software conflicts or end-of-life issues, switch to WPS Office. It includes a powerful, secure, and lightweight PDF reader and editor that bypasses legacy software conflicts while seamlessly handling all your documents.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office Free on your Windows computer.
- 2. Access PDF Properties: Right-click on any PDF file on your desktop or in File Explorer and select 'Properties' from the context menu.
- 3. Change the Opens With setting: In the General tab, click the 'Change' button next to 'Opens with' and choose WPS Office from the list of programs.
- 4. Apply changes: Click 'Apply' and then 'OK' to save your new default PDF settings permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Adobe Reader DC keep taking over as the default PDF app?
Adobe Reader DC is a newer application than Acrobat X. Windows and Adobe's internal update mechanisms often prioritize the most recent software version installed on the system, which causes Reader DC to frequently reclaim the default file handler status.
Can I run Adobe Acrobat X and Reader DC on the same computer?
While technically possible, Adobe strongly advises against installing both Acrobat and Reader side by side. They share underlying system files, which regularly leads to default application conflicts and unexpected software behavior.
Is it safe to continue using Adobe Acrobat X?
Acrobat X has reached its End-Of-Life (EOL) status. This means it no longer receives critical security updates, bug fixes, or technical support, making your computer more vulnerable to potential security risks when opening unverified PDF files.
