PDF Opening in Chrome: Fix Browser Setting Issue

Are you frustrated because PDF files always open in Google Chrome instead of your preferred PDF viewer? You're not alone. Many users face this issue, but don't worry, there are several solutions to fix this problem. Let's explore them.

How to Fix a PDF Not Opening in Chrome - Make Tech Easier
How to Fix a PDF Not Opening in Chrome - Make Tech Easier

Before we dive into the solutions, let's understand why this might be happening. By default, Chrome uses its built-in PDF viewer to open PDF files. However, if you have other PDF viewers installed, like Adobe Acrobat Reader or Foxit Reader, Chrome might still prioritize its own viewer. This can be changed, and we'll show you how.

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How to Download PDF Files on Click in Chrome (Instead of Opening Them)

Changing Default PDF Handler in Chrome

Chrome allows you to change the default application that opens PDF files. Here's how you can do it:

Make Google Chrome Download PDF Files Instead of Opening
Make Google Chrome Download PDF Files Instead of Opening

1. Open Chrome and navigate to a PDF file. Right-click on the file and select "Open with".

2. If your preferred PDF viewer is listed, select it. If not, click on "Choose another app".

How to Download PDFs on Chrome Instead of Opening Them
How to Download PDFs on Chrome Instead of Opening Them

Adding Your Preferred PDF Viewer

If your preferred PDF viewer is not listed, you'll need to add it manually. Here's how:

1. Click on "Look for another app on this PC".

Chrome: How to Open a PDF Using Adobe Reader
Chrome: How to Open a PDF Using Adobe Reader

2. Navigate to the installation folder of your PDF viewer and select it. Make sure to check the box that says "Always open this type of file with the selected app".

Resetting Chrome's Settings

If changing the default handler doesn't work, resetting Chrome's settings might help. Here's how:

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Notable PDF: Annotate & Save Changes Made To A PDF Offline [Chrome]

1. Open Chrome and type "chrome://settings/reset" in the address bar.

2. Click on "Reset settings". This will reset your Chrome settings to their default state, including the default PDF handler.

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Using a Third-Party Extension

If the above methods don't work, you might want to consider using a third-party extension. An extension like "Seamless PDF Viewer" can force Chrome to use your preferred PDF viewer.

1. Install the extension from the Chrome Web Store.

2. Once installed, click on its icon in the toolbar and select your preferred PDF viewer.

Changing Default PDF Handler in Windows

If you're using Windows, you can change the default PDF handler at the system level. Here's how:

1. Open the Control Panel and click on "Default Programs".

2. Click on "Set your default programs". Select your preferred PDF viewer and click on "Set this program as default".

Changing Default PDF Handler in macOS

If you're using a Mac, you can change the default PDF handler using the "Open With" context menu. Here's how:

1. Open the PDF file using the "Open With" context menu and select your preferred PDF viewer.

2. Hold down the Option key and click the "Open With" button again. This time, select "Always Open With" and choose your preferred PDF viewer.

Remember, the key to solving this issue is to ensure that your preferred PDF viewer is set as the default handler. Whether you do this in Chrome, at the system level, or using a third-party extension, the process is straightforward. So, go ahead and enjoy your PDFs with your preferred viewer!

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