Adobe Reader vs Microsoft Edge

Last updated: July 26, 2023
Adobe Reader and Microsoft Edge are two popular software applications designed for handling PDF (Portable Document Format) files, but they have some key differences in terms of functionality and features.

Firstly, Adobe Reader is a dedicated and specialized PDF reader developed by Adobe Inc. It is designed solely for viewing, printing, and commenting on PDF documents. The primary focus of Adobe Reader is to provide a lightweight and efficient platform for users to access PDF files without the need for extensive editing capabilities. On the other hand, Microsoft Edge, a web browser developed by Microsoft, includes a built-in PDF viewer as one of its many features. This integration allows users to open and view PDF documents directly within the browser window. While it lacks the comprehensive features of Adobe Reader, it provides a more streamlined and convenient experience for users who want to access PDFs without installing additional software.

Secondly, Adobe Reader offers more advanced tools for working with PDF documents, especially when it comes to commenting, annotating, and filling out forms. It provides a comprehensive set of tools that allow users to highlight text, add comments, draw shapes, and even digitally sign documents. Microsoft Edge's built-in PDF viewer, while sufficient for basic viewing needs, lacks these advanced editing and annotation capabilities. Users who require extensive PDF manipulation may find Adobe Reader to be the more suitable choice.
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Adobe Reader
Adobe Reader software is the free trusted standard for reliably viewing, printing, and annotating PDF documents. It’s the only PDF file viewer that can open and interact with all types of PDF content, including forms and multimedia.
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Microsoft Edge
Microsoft's web browser that allows to read PDF and EPUB books.
Adobe Reader vs Microsoft Edge in our news:

2023. Microsoft Edge now allows to read EPUB files



Microsoft appears to have reintroduced support for ePub readers in the latest version of Microsoft Edge Canary. In 2019, this feature was discontinued, but it now seems to have made a quiet return. Users who wish to access the ePub format will need to follow a few simple steps. First, ensure that the browser is closed before proceeding. Then, open Microsoft Edge, right-click, and select "Properties." In the Target field, scroll to the end, add a space, and then type (or copy/paste) the following: –enable-features=msEdgeEpubReaderEnabled. Click "Apply" and then "OK." Once these steps are completed, the ePub format will be successfully enabled on Microsoft Edge Canary.