7 Best Free PDF Readers for Windows and Mac in 2021

PDFs are being used as a universal standard format today. This is because they are accessible to any operating system and can be easily attached to a website or an email. Likewise, the format file cannot be easily changed or altered by anyone, making it more useful in keeping and securing your documents. That's why more and more people use PDF at work, in schools, etc. Yes, opening a PDF file is indeed easy and direct if it's for a read-only file. 

But when it comes to altering, editing, or converting a PDF file will require you to use a reliable PDF reader. One good thing is there are the best PDF readers out there accessible for free, and they're equally good as their paid counterparts. To help you look for one, we have highlighted here the eight of the best free PDF readers available to use for Windows and M

1. PDFBear

This is the best free web-based PDF Reader available today. This is one of the unique software that offers free PDF reader access to your Windows and Mac. Plus, it also comes with other useful tools such as a converter, splitter, merger, etc., that all you can use dealing with your PDF files. And take note, no need to worry about the cost as you'll not be going to spend any single centavo to access.

More than that, it guarantees to provide you a real quick service for your PDF files. This tool also ensures securing and protecting your files with its best class SSL encryption; you alone can read and access your file. To read a particular document using this tool, all you need to do is upload the PDF file directly to the PDF reader tool. Once the system has thoroughly analyzed your file, you can now open it.

2. Foxit Reader

Next on the list comes similar features to Google Docs of PDF readers. Here in Foxit Reader, you can freely create, share, and secure your PDF files on Windows and Mac. If you want to create a PDF file, simply upload scans, and convert Word documents, Excel sheets, and PPTs. You can even combine several PDF files into a new single file.

You can also grant and revoke access to your file if you want someone to read and make some changes to the documents. Since you're the owner, you can track who opens your files and view their edit, and comments, and can likewise notify them about the new changes or updates of your PDF. Besides, no need to worry about your file's security and privacy; the Foxit reader provides multiple security options to ensure your file is secured.

3. Adobe Acrobat Reader DC

This is one of the most popular PDF reader tools accessible to anyone. Adobe's free PDF reader, Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, can be connected directly to the Adobe Document cloud and other cloud storage systems (Box, Dropbox, and Microsoft OneDrive). It allows you to open, view, share and comment on PDF files.

The coolest feature it offers is that it can read text out loud, which only means that it helps and guides you to any document that is difficult to read. This PDF reader is the best partner for busy working professionals who need to read and annotate on the PDF file even when they're on commute.

4. Javelin PDF Reader

Another best free PDF reader is Javelin PDF Reader, which is known as a direct and very functional tool. It allows anyone to launch and print standard and event encrypted PDF files. This also lets you annotate and put a bookmark where you had stopped reading on the file. Knowing that it comes with a download size of two MB, using a PDF reader is quick with a simple and user-friendly interface.

5. Nitro Reader

Striking a good balance of advanced features and usability is what makes this PDF reader a great tool to use. This comes with a super fast and simple interface PDF reader and offers other tools such as creating, reviewing, securing, and sharing PDF files. If you want to create a PDF file, simply drag and drop your documents into the reader. Plus, you are allowed to design your PDF draft if you want to; you can custom colours, embed a font, and orientation.

If you need to review a document, this tool also helps you edit, comment, and even address feedback. It uses a Quick Sign to pass-word, protect and sign your documents, ensuring your files are always secured and protected from any unwanted users. Sharing your PDF file is also on the go as PDFs you've created in the Nitro Reader are compatible with almost any other PDF reader.

6. PDF-XChange Editor

If you're looking for a more robust free PDF reader, this PDF-XChange Editor is definitely a great option. You are allowed to create, view, add notes, record, and attached audio to the PDF files. Highlighting text, attaching files, and adding signatures are likewise other features accessible for you. But the most remarkable feature it offers is the Optical Character Recognition tool. You are allowed to scan printed documents and then convert the text into a searchable doc.

7. MuPDF

This one is a standard PDF reader, great for viewing and editing your documents. You can fill out the text and even annotate documents, then, later on, use it to convert PDF files into other file formats. If you want to edit or alter your PDF file, you can simply write scripts in Javascript. MuPDF is the best option if you're looking for a low-memory PDF reader that you can easily use to edit and view files.

Takeaway

Finding the best PDF reader accessible for free is not something to struggle with, especially today's advancement. You can always find a PDF reader online that is compatible with any software you have. The best seven PDF readers listed above are all great and useful tools, especially our number pick, to help you easily view your documents.