CNET Editors' note: The Download Now link will direct you to a form on the developer's site that you must fill out before download.
CNET Editors' review
This free software lets you view and print Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) files. As the open standard for worldwide electronic document distribution, Adobe PDF files preserve all the formatting, the graphics and the colors of the original document, so Acrobat users know they're delivering the exact same presentation to everyone.
Adobe Reader offers several display options at different zoom levels depending on the documents need for exacting details. A full-screen mode lets you view documents without distraction. You can also complete and submit PDF forms online, a feature that will become more useful as companies adopt the technology.
The collaborative and search tools in version 9 are exceptional, and another welcome addition is Acrobat Reader's integration with Adobe Connect, which lets users instantly comment and collaborate on projects with online presentations and live online meetings. The integration with FedEx Kinko's for remote printing is nice, if you need that kind of thing, but it's subject to third-party fees. We noticed that Acrobat Reader uses a significant chunk of memory in our processes list, but with the way Acrobat Reader is commonly used, memory issues probably won't be a problem for most users.
Overall, Adobe Reader provides users with the ability to view PDF files efficiently, with an interface and tools to make viewing both simple and painless. Though there are other PDF readers available that may take up less space or work at slightly faster speeds, none offer as much of a toolset as Adobe Reader does nor seamless integration with other useful Adobe tools.
Publisher's Description
From Adobe Systems:
Adobe Reader allows more securely view, print, search, sign, verify, and collaborate on PDF documents, online as well as offline, from your home or office. Reader has a completely redesigned interface, new tools, and new options for viewing information more efficiently. Access to an online, real-time meeting in seconds.
Reader is integrated with Adobe Connect software, which enables users to instantly communicate and accelerate approvals with virtually anyone, anywhere, at any time. Add more security to your documents, forms, and drawings with digital signatures. Leverage Adobe LiveCycle Policy Server and the new Adobe Online Services Document Center to enforce access rights at the document level.
Version 9 includes compatibility with Acrobat.com for enhanced web-based collaboration and other features, built-in multimedia support, a streamlined interface, support for searching all PDFs on a drive, and more.
What's new in this version: Version 9 includes compatibility with Acrobat.com for enhanced web-based collaboration and other features, built-in multimedia support, a streamlined interface, support for searching all PDFs on a drive, and more.
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All versions:
2.9 starsout of 1,347 votes
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Current version:
2.4 starsout of 120 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"Changes from Reader 9 create huge new hassle"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
Adds the ability to add notes to your document
Cons
Huge new hassle in saving files from with in the reader
Slow to openSummary
I frequently archive a batch of pdf files I've scanned to my email by opening them, then clicking the "save" button, which would bring up the "save as" window, and I could save them to the folder of my desire. This used to be a snap, but no longer. The "save" button has lost it's "save as" functionality and now is grayed out, unless I edit the document (extra unnecessary steps). The alternative is to add two extra steps by clicking "file", "save as", "pdf". Of course now extra steps are added there too, because Acrobat X no longer remembers the last folder you saved in, so now I have to navigate to the folder for EVER SINGLE DOCUMENT! This increases by multiples the time it takes to get through a batch of saves. I'm uninstalling and going back to Reader 9.
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"Want 9 because X is a nightmare"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
I have Adobe Reader 9 on my XP netbook and never have any problems with it. I don't notice it when I'm not using it. It always works, like I expect it to, when I need it.
Cons
none on XP-hoping it will be the same on Vista
Summary
I have adobe X on a 64 bit Vista system and if it will actually work with stuff, it's just a guess on what it is do, how to get to page 31, etc, whether a contol popup will appear at the bottom of the page. I can muddle through all that but when it won't even work with stuff it previously worked with, like income tax PDFs, that is a big problem to me. If you think you hate Adobe Reader 9 just wait until you try Adobe Reader X. What are they thinking. Whatever it takes, I will get Adobe Reader 9 on my Vista system.
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"very helpful"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
It helped me read.
Cons
I have no comment about it.
Summary
It helped me concentrate with my reading medically.
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"Adobe Reader 9 is completely UN*USEABLE"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
If it worked, I could.
Cons
1) UsesTOO MUCH memory;
2) When I download, it changes ALL my shortcuts/programs to Adobe. Nothing opens, not even Adobe Reader! I cannot stand the fact that I cannot access some necessary online forms with any other program.Summary
Cannot open it or any other program on my laptop (Windows 7 64-bit). I had to remove it from my laptop! Adobe wants to CHARGE ME to fix the problem. Never had problems of any kind before,
Intercessor@OptOnline.net -
"Thanks for saving my job Adobe!"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
Fatty bloated crapware causes incessant system slowdowns and crashes. The constant stream of customers requiring my tech support keeps my family fed.
Cons
Doesn't install rootkits or viruses for me to bill extra time for.
Summary
Keep up the good work Adobe! Making me more $$$ with every new version!
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"u can play music and games wiv it installed"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
you can play games
Cons
takes ages to download
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"Missing some using printing options from reader 8"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
works well with Firefox as a plugin
Cons
Printing options missing
Summary
Generally okay but I need those printing options.
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"Very handy and versatile"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
provides instant solution to computer problems
Cons
None that I can think of
Summary
Provides easy reading and nice format in reading data and documents
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"absolutely work"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
I found something better after reading W Macaulay's comment on Foxit Reader. I downloaded Foxit Reade2.3. So far so good it performs fast just like this person commented on say it performs. Thanks so much.
Cons
I found something better after reading W Macaulay's comment on Foxit Reader. I downloaded Foxit Reader 2.3. So far so good it performs fast just like this person commented on say it performs. Thanks so much.
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"Meh ...3.75 stars ..cant give 4"
Version: Adobe Reader 9
Pros
It does the job
Cons
Too bloated with extra useless information, and hogs everything.
Summary
Im going to try Foxit, you should too
PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF (insert holy figure here) use FOXIT ... ITS FREE, IT CAN EDIT, ITS SMALLER ... PLZZZZZ
Updated on Mar 12, 2009
http://download.cnet.com/Foxit-Reader/3000-2079_4-10313206.html?tag=mncol
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