Program for reading pdf. How to open a pdf file on any device - all methods and links to applications

The .PDF format appeared in 1993, and was developed by Adobe Systems. Explanation of the abbreviation in the extension name - Portable Document Format.

Program for opening PDF files

The standard option for those cases when you need to open a PDF file and view its contents. This program was created by the same company that developed the .PDF format, and is undoubtedly the most popular “reader”. We also convert Pdf using this program. Free software(a paid subscription to the Pro version will allow you to create and edit files with the PDF extension).

What are PDF files used for?

Most often, files with this extension are product manuals, e-books, flyers, work applications, scanned documents and brochures.

The reason for the popularity of this format is that PDF files do not depend on the programs in which they were created, nor on any specific operating system or hardware. They will look the same from any device.

Good day!

Magazines, books, scanned documents, forms, drawings and more are now often distributed in PDF format. Whether you like it or not, without special software for working with these formats - it’s neither here nor there...

Actually, in this article I have collected some of the most popular products for working with this format. I think that the material will be relevant both for those who have encountered some problem and cannot read a specific PDF file, and for those who are looking for a convenient tool for everyday tasks.

The article will present programs of different orientations, functionality, design, and requirements for system resources. I hope everyone will be able to choose a “software” for their current tasks. And so, closer to the point...

Remark!

For example, formats such as txt, fb2, html, rtf, doc are much more convenient to read in special formats. e-readers than in Word or Notepad.Link -

Top 6 PDF Viewers

Adobe Acrobat Reader

My website page saved in PDF is open

One of the most common PDF readers (which is not surprising, since Acrobat Reader is a product from the developer of this format) .

It has some of the widest capabilities for reading, printing and editing PDF. I would like to note that not so long ago this reader was integrated with the “cloud” (Adobe Document Cloud), thanks to which it has now become much more convenient to work simultaneously on a PC and mobile gadgets!

It must be said that Adobe Acrobat Reader has amazing compatibility: some PDF files (especially big size), which are displayed incorrectly in any other readers, are presented here in normal mode.

Therefore, in my opinion, even if you do not use this particular program, it would not be a bad idea to have it in reserve...

Add. possibilities:

  • quickly convert a PDF file to Word or Excel program formats;
  • Now it is not necessary to have paper forms - you can fill them out in in electronic format and send by mail. Adobe Acrobat Reader allows you to do this;
  • In addition to the Adobe Document Cloud, you can configure your system so that the PDF will be available on such popular cloud drives as: Box, Dropbox and ;
  • The reader allows you to create annotations and comments on the files being viewed.

STDU Viewer

A very compact, free and universal program for reading various formats: PDF, DjVu, XPS, TIFF, TXT, BMP, GIF, JPG, JPEG, PNG, etc.

I would highlight the key advantages: low demands on PC resources, you can open several documents at once in one window, the contents with quick links are displayed on the side panel. There is also a conveniently built-in bookmark system that allows you to return to the last place you read in one click.

In addition, easy page scaling, rotating pages 90-180 degrees, printing a document, adjusting gamma and contrast, etc. are available.

It is possible to convert PDF and DjVu files into text formats. In general, the program deserves attention and acquaintance!

Foxit Reader

A very convenient PDF file reader. I would like to immediately note its relatively low system requirements(in relation to the same Adobe Reader), a convenient bookmark system, a side menu (with the contents of the open book), a modern interface. In general, the abundance of all kinds of functions and capabilities is amazing (in fact, one could say: a lot functional program).

Peculiarities:

  • the program interface is as close as possible to Word, Excel, etc. (which causes a clear affinity for the product);
  • the ability to quickly customize the toolbar (add what you often need and remove what you don’t use);
  • the program supports touch screen (in full);
  • the ability to create a PDF portfolio;
  • filling out PDF (Acroform) and XFA forms (XML form architecture);
  • support for everyone modern versions OS Windows 7, 8, 10.

Sumatra PDF

Supported Formats: PDF, eBook, XPS, DjVu, CHM.

If you are looking for a very simple, compact and quick program to view PDF - then I’m not afraid to say that Sumatra PDF will be best choice! Both the program itself and the files in it open as quickly as your system allows.

Peculiarities:

  • the design is made in the style of minimalism (so popular in Lately). Main priority functions: viewing and printing files;
  • support for 60 languages ​​(including Russian);
  • there is a portable version that does not require installation (you can carry it with you on a flash drive, and if anything, you can open the PDF on any PC);
  • Unlike its analogues (including Adobe Acrobat Reader), the program correctly scales pictures in black and white(a very useful thing when reading books);
  • correctly reads and recognizes hyperlinks embedded in PDF;
  • Sumatra does not block open PDF file(relevant for those who work with TeX systems);
  • Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 (32.64 bits) are supported.

PDF-XChange Viewer

Multifunctional program for viewing PDF files. I would especially like to note its relatively low system requirements, rich functionality, simple and user-friendly interface. By the way, the program supports the Russian language.

Peculiarities:

  • detailed settings of the font, display of pictures, navigation settings, etc. allow you to comfortably read even large files;
  • the ability to view several files at once (including protected ones);
  • detailed configuration of the viewing area and toolbar;
  • the ability to convert PDF documents into image formats: BMP, JPEG, TIFF, PNG, etc.;
  • integration with popular ABBYY translators Lingvo and Translate It!
  • There are plugins for IE and Firefox browsers;
  • the ability to send PDF by email directly from the viewing window (very convenient when you have a lot of scanned documents);
  • allows you to extract text from PDF, and much more...

Hamster PDF Reader

Simple, convenient, tasteful! Hamster PDF Reader (preview with home page of. site)

Hamster PDF Reader - regarding new program, which allows you to view not only PDF, but also formats such as XPS, DjVu. The program interface is designed in the style of Office 2016 (similar to Foxit Reader).

The program is not replete with functions, but it has everything that most people need: viewing settings (font, sheet, brightness, full-screen mode, etc.), printing, bookmarks, etc.

Another plus: the program does not need to be installed (there is a portable version). Thus, you can write it to a flash drive and always have it on hand for working with PDF.

In general, it’s an interesting and uncluttered product that allows you to solve the most mundane tasks.

Additions on the topic are welcome...

All the best and happy reading!

PDF format is used for storage electronic documents. Initially, only a program from Adobe itself was used to open PDF files. But over time, many solutions from third-party developers have appeared. These apps vary in their availability (free and paid) and additional features. Agree, it’s convenient when, in addition to reading, there is the ability to edit the original content of a PDF file or recognize text from a picture.

Therefore there is a large number of different programs for reading PDF. For some, a simple viewing function is enough. Others need to change the source text of a document, add a comment to this text, convert a Word file to PDF, and much more.


When it comes to PDF viewing, most programs are very similar. But there are exceptions here too. For example, some have an auto-scroll feature, while others do not. Below is a list of the most popular free PDF viewers.

Most famous program Adobe Reader is used to view PDF files. And this is no coincidence, since Adobe is the developer of the format itself.

This product has a pleasant appearance and standard functions for viewing PDF. Adobe Reader is free application, but a number of features, such as editing and text recognition, become available only after purchasing a paid subscription.

This is undoubtedly a disadvantage for those who need these functions, but do not want to spend their money.

STDU Viewer

STDU Weaver positions itself as a universal combiner for viewing many different formats of electronic documents. The program is able to “digest” Djvu, TIFF, XPS and much more. The number of supported formats also includes PDF. It is convenient when one program is enough to view a wide variety of files.

You can also note the presence of a portable version of STDU Viewer, which does not need to be installed. Otherwise, this product does not stand out among other PDF viewers.

Foxit Reader

Foxit Reader is almost an analogue of Adobe Reader, with the exception of some differences. For example, the program has the ability to enable automatic scrolling of document pages, which allows you to read a PDF without touching the mouse or keyboard.

The program is also capable of opening not only PDF, but also Word, Excel, TIFF and other file formats. Open files You can then save it as PDF.

At the same time, the disadvantage of this application is the inability to edit the source PDF text.

PDF XChange Viewer

PDF XChange Viewer is probably the most the best program from those presented in this article. It is completely free and allows you to edit the original PDF content. PDF XChange Viewer is also able to recognize text in an image. Using this feature, you can convert books and other paper text into digital format.

Otherwise, the application meets all standards of software solutions for reading PDF files.

Sumatra PDF

Sumatra PDF - the most simple program from the list. But that doesn't mean she's bad. In terms of viewing PDF files, it is not inferior to others, and its simplicity appearance Perfect for those users who have just begun to get acquainted with working on a computer.

Solid Converter PDF

Solid Converter PDF is a program for converting PDF to Word, Excel and other electronic document formats. The application allows you to preview the document before converting. The disadvantages of Solid Converter PDF include a shareware license: you can use it for free only during the trial period. Then you need to either buy it or reinstall it.

For convenience, we will distinguish four types of programs: viewers (for reading and annotating), editors (for editing text and other content), managers (for splitting, compressing and other manipulations with files) and converters (for converting PDF to other formats).

Most applications can be classified into several types at once.

  • Type: viewer, editor, converter, manager.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.

A very intuitive and convenient program with an impressive number of functions. When you launch Sejda PDF, you will immediately see all the tools grouped by category. Select the one you need, drag the required file into the program window and start manipulating. Most things in this app can be done in a few seconds, even if you are using it for the first time.

What you can do in Sejda PDF:

  • edit text, add images and shapes;
  • convert PDF to Excel, JPG (and vice versa), Word (and vice versa);
  • combine and separate files into pages, compress their size;
  • protect documents with a password;
  • add watermarks;
  • discolor documents;
  • trim page area;
  • sign documents.

The free version of the program has limitations. For example, files should not be more than 200 pages and not exceed 50 MB in size. In addition, you cannot perform more than three operations with documents during the day. Price full version Sejda PDF is $5.25 per month.

  • Type: manager, converter, editor.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, .

PDFsam cannot boast of a polished, user-friendly interface. In addition, the program does not allow you to convert PDF and edit the contents of documents for free. But it does have several useful managerial functions that are available to everyone without payment or any restrictions.

What you can do in PDFsam:

  • combine PDF in several modes (glue in parts or mix page by page);
  • split PDF by pages, bookmarks (in places with specified words) and size into separate documents;
  • rotate pages (if some of them were scanned upside down);
  • extract pages with specified numbers;
  • convert Excel, Word, PowerPoint formats to PDF;
  • convert PDF to Excel, Word and PowerPoint formats ($10);
  • edit text and other file content ($30).

  • Type
  • Platforms: Windows.

A very functional program with a classic interface in the style of Microsoft office applications. PDF-XChange Editor is not very beginner friendly. To master all the features of the program, you need to spend some time. Fortunately, everyone internal descriptions and tips are translated into Russian.

What you can do in PDF-XChange Editor:

  • add annotations and highlight text;
  • edit text and other content;
  • recognize text using OCR;
  • extract pages from documents;
  • encrypt documents (paid);
  • convert PDF to Word, Excel and PowerPoint formats and vice versa (paid);
  • compress files (paid);
  • sort pages in any order (paid).

These are not all the functions that you can find in PDF-XChange Editor. The program is available in several versions with different amounts opportunities. The cost of paid versions starts at $43.5.

  • Type: viewer, manager, converter, editor.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.

A popular universal program for working with PDF from the company. Free version is a very convenient document viewer; other functions are available by subscription starting at 149 rubles per month.

What you can do in Adobe Acrobat Reader:

  • view documents, highlight and comment on text, search for words and phrases;
  • sign documents (paid);
  • edit text and other content (paid);
  • combine documents into one file (paid);
  • compress files (paid);
  • convert PDF to Word, Excel and PowerPoint formats (paid);
  • Convert images in JPG, JPEG, TIF and BMP formats to PDF (paid).

All these features and more are available in desktop versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader. Mobile versions the programs only allow you to view and annotate documents, and also - after subscribing - convert them into different formats.

  • Type: viewer, converter.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.

Fast and convenient PDF reader with different viewing modes. Ideal for users who want a simple document reader without a lot of extra features. The program is available on all major platforms.

22/05/2017

Cool PDF Reader is a convenient program for viewing and converting pdf files, distinctive feature which is small in size and has an abundance of functions. This program is considered one of the smallest - its size is less than one megabyte, but the program has enough functions for the average user who only wants to view and convert pdf files. The program allows you to view documents in full screen mode, as well as print them in just a few clicks. In addition, you can easily change the scale of the document, or rotate it at an angle convenient for you. Another feature of the program is conv...

12/12/2016

Foxit Reader is an alternative popular package for working with pdf files. The program has a very clear interface, the ability to view files in several tabs, high speed and full compatibility with popular operating systems. An important factor is the presence of the Russian language in the program, which greatly facilitates working with it. The program has the ability to view documents in full screen mode, leave comments and graphic bookmarks in the text, print documents, view files without leaving Windows Explorer and install various plugins, skins, mods...

26/09/2016

PDF-XChange Viewer is a fast viewer of the famous PDF format, characterized by high speed and many different functions. For example, the program allows you to easily add comments and annotations to PDF documents, as well as set a password for opening these files. In addition, the program allows you to easily scan text and images and add them directly to PDF files, which is quite convenient. It is also possible to import and export any file content. It doesn’t matter whether it’s text or pictures. You can add any images to the file, or vice versa, cut out these images...

04/05/2015

PDF Shaper – collection the right tools for optimal work with PDF files. The program can convert a PDF document, or several at the same time, into MS Word, or rather into RTF format. But converting documents from PDF to Word is not the only advantage of PDF Shaper; it can also extract certain elements, such as pictures, tables, etc. In addition to these functions, it can split one PDF document into several, or, conversely, combine several documents into one. At the same time, the program works with encrypted documents, and can also restrict access with a password. Very easy to use, even a beginner can...

28/04/2015

Recently, more and more electronic books, magazines, brochures are appearing on the Internet, and all these files are usually in PDF or DjVu format. This program will help you view DjVu, PDF, TIFF and similar files on Windows OS. STDU Viewer is lightweight, simple and a worthy replacement for Adobe Acrobat. Everything is included in the program necessary tools to read and search for fragments in a document. The program is available in several languages, including Russian. Among the advantages, we can note a wide range of scaling options: scale to the screen, scale to the selection, display the entire page on the entire screen or only...

28/03/2015

PDF Architect is a simple program designed to convert a range of texts, images into a convenient PDF format. The utility allows you to read created documents and any files with a similar extension. For ease of interaction with the application, you can create a number of bookmarks at once with the necessary documents, and when to switch between them. PDF Architect allows you to resize the document and rotate it. To create your own document with this format, you must complete activation via email. Thanks to this function, any user can create a PDF file from a taken image, text or Comicbook file. The program allows...

24/03/2015

SoftDigi PDFViewer is a small application created specifically for viewing various files with the PDF extension. The program has a visually pleasing interface that allows you to combine various PDF documents into one common file. Allows you to set minimum document security parameters, necessary information about this file. The application has functions such as moving pages, deleting unnecessary pages, exporting, changing places. SoftDigi PDFViewer allows you to easily insert fragments from other files into a PDF document, as well as quickly export pages to a number of different graphic formats. Effectively exports pages...

27/01/2015

Sumatra PDF – in full free program to view formats such as XPS, CBR, DJVu, CHM, CBZ and PDF. The program has a very modest interface, since the developers focused on its speed and minimalism. Unlike the popular Adobe Reader viewer, this program works much faster, has only a set of necessary functions and allows you to edit documents that are simultaneously open in other applications. In addition, Sumatra PDF has a special plugin that can be embedded in a series popular browsers. This will allow the user to open files directly from the browser window...

10/12/2014

Adobe Reader is one of the most popular programs for working and viewing PDF files. The PDF format is used to create a kind of electronic books, but its capabilities are not limited to this. Some user manuals or training materials are often written in PDF format. IN latest versions format, it became possible to embed Flash video into a document. Adobe Reader perfectly supports all these features and allows you to view all types of documents, regardless of what format modification was used to create them. Among other things, the main Adobe Reader package also includes...

Views