The PDF is one of the main document types on the internet. You can see this document type on eBooks, your teacher’s lecture notes, contracts, and more. It is convenient for file sharing since PDF does not destroy the formatting, and you can open the document in the same shape as it was before on any device. PDFs are also famous for their small file size, which is excellent if your device has insufficient storage space.
Unfortunately, not all websites and programs support the PDF format. You may have downloaded the file successfully, but it isn’t exactly easy to access this type of document without a PDF reader. Most PDF readers also have a subscription fee that can be difficult to pay for, especially if you are currently a student. Today, we will list the best five PDF readers that are easy and free to use. Let’s get started!
Three kinds of PDF readers
Before getting on to the list, let’s first take a look at the three kinds of PDF readers. Each PDF reader type has its benefits and downsides. These are:
1. PDF reader as a desktop software
Desktop PDF readers are software that you need to install on your computer to open PDF files. You can use Desktop PDF readers offline, which is excellent if you have an unstable internet connection. It also has various features, including the ability to highlight and put additional texts to the document.
2. PDF reader as a mobile application
This type of PDF reader allows you to access PDF documents through your smartphone or tablet. However, you have to download its mobile application first through Google Play Store or Apple App Store before you can open PDF files. It is perfect for students using a mobile device for online classes since some teachers give their lecture notes in a PDF format.
3. Online PDF readers
These online PDF readers do not need any software or application to access PDF documents. You only need to search for the PDF reader’s website online and select a file to view your PDF files. However, you can only use this type with the internet. Most online PDF readers incorporate Cloud Technology, which is useful if you want to save your data and link your file to others later.
Top 5 PDF readers for free
So, what PDF reader should you use to open PDF documents? Below is a list of the top five PDF readers that are easy to use and can view PDF files for free.
1. PDFBear
PDFBear is a website that offers various services relating to PDF, one of which is a PDF reader. It is free, and you do not need to download any software or mobile application to view the document.
You only have to select a file from your device and the website should let you view the file after a few seconds. It is also possible to print the PDF directly from the website if you need to have a physical copy of the document.
2. Adobe Acrobat Reader
The Adobe Acrobat is a famous PDF reader with cool features such as reading the text aloud, splitting the document into multiple files, and letting you sign signatures for contracts.
This PDF reader is available to use as a software, mobile application, and online. It also connects with other cloud storage systems such as Microsoft OneDrive. Thus, you can view PDF files anytime on any device.
3. Foxit Reader
Foxit reader is another well-known PDF reader for desktop computers and smartphones. You can view, edit, and print PDFs with Foxit Reader. Not only that, but it also allows you to collaborate with your teammates for a group project and sign signatures for contracts with encryption to protect the document.
To add text to a PDF, utilize editing tools. Open the PDF, select the “Text” or “Edit” feature, click where desired, input text, and customize font and formatting. Save your changes to complete the process. Learn more about how to add text to PDF.
4.Google Drive
Google Drive is famous for its cloud storage, and there are around 1 billion users worldwide as of 2018. One of the many features that Google Drive has to offer is that the users can view PDF files for free.
You only need a Google account to upload PDF files on Google Drive, and then you can open it by clicking the document. Google Drive also has an application that you can download at Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. Thus, you can access PDF files with Google Drive whether you use a desktop or a smartphone
However, it is not possible to edit PDF files with Google Drive. So, it is perfect for users who only want to see the PDF. If you have to edit the PDF, you should opt for another PDF reader instead.
5. Your Desktop’s Browser
Did you know that you can view PDF documents with your browser? If you use browsers like Microsoft Edge, you can simply drag the PDF file and place it on the Tab button. You can also open a PDF on your desktop’s browser right after downloading the file. To do so, click the “open file” text that shows up after downloading the document, and the browser should redirect you to the file.
Final Words
PDF is a famous type of document on the internet, which you can see on eBooks, lecture notes, contracts, and more. To access a PDF file, you will need to use a PDF reader consisting of three types: desktop, mobile application, and online PDF readers. We hope you will find a PDF reader that suits your needs and preferences with our top 5 list.
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