Microsoft Reader for Windows

Used Microsoft Reader for Windows?

If you already have Microsoft Reader installed, it is recommended that you choose the Microsoft Reader Update installation option. If you choose to download the full installation, uninstall Microsoft Reader through the Add/Remove Programs control panel before you run the installation utility.

Editors’ Review

Download.com staffFebruary 25, 2026

Microsoft Reader aims to replicate the physical book experience digitally, offering active reading tools and a personal library. Enjoy high-resolution ClearType and extensive annotation features.

Pros
- Mimics printed book reading experience
- Active reading capabilities
- Instant content access
- Personal library management
- High-resolution ClearType display
Cons
- Add-on dictionary required for dictionary functionality
- Security update details limited

Microsoft Reader for Windows

Used Microsoft Reader for Windows?

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Full Specifications

GENERAL

Release: July 8, 2003

Latest update: February 25, 2026

Version: 2.1.1

OPERATING SYSTEMS

Platform: Windows

Operating System

Windows 98
Windows XP
Windows ME
Windows 10
Windows NT
Windows 2000

Additional Requirements: Windows 98/NT/2000/Me/XP

POPULARITY

Total Downloads: 483,917

Downloads Last Week: 6

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Program available in other languages

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Last Updated

User Reviews

3.3/5

30 User Votes

It will add hours to your workload.
Samuel DarlingMay 14, 2015
Pros
It will allow you to read your pdf.
Cons
- Settings will adjust themselves for no apparent reason. - Permission is just there for looks. You can fully edit protected pdfs at random times - When you have permission Microsoft added a grid system for text so that highlighting words and adding notes is obstructed. Why highlight an important error or critical mistake in 2 seconds, when 5 - 10 minutes will do? - It exists.
Summary
Microsoft, please sort it out. So much for the innovation power house that the private sector harps on about. You owe me at least 300+ hours of lost productivity.
obsolete but it does work
John PIlgeOctober 27, 2013
Pros
It works well reading files in .lit and is stable.
Cons
The file format .lit is no longer available. It has been replaced by .epub and there are no books available in .lit that I can find.
Summary
Microsoft discontinued Microsoft Reader effective August 30, 2012. There will be no support, upgrades, or books published for Microsoft Reader.
very useful
kert777April 4, 2011
Pros
ease of use.
Cons
not any know at this time.
Summary
It is free.
ChirilaMisuFebruary 7, 2011
Pros
I can read what I want in a convenient way.
Cons
Complicate to download and activate.
Summary
An average eBook reader
bartkoslowDecember 5, 2010
Pros
Microsoft reader will do an average job of reading ebooks.
Cons
Not comparable to the ebook readers from either Amazon of Barnes and Noble.
Summary
If you are not particular about your ebook reader you certainly can use this one, but I do not recommend it as there are better ones.
Like It Use On Laptop and Phone
Stormy208November 30, 2010
Pros
I like the fact that I can read anywhere. I transfer bookmarks between laptop and phone.
Cons
Would like a new look.
Summary
simple,and its free!
morningafterdarkJuly 4, 2010
Pros
does what it says..a very simple product to use..no hassle..
Cons
even if you activate it after working your ass off,won't open some books..
Summary
good for .lit forms..but if u are looking for the best option,this is not it!
not what I was looking for
dmwelchJune 25, 2010
Pros
It's a Microsoft product
Cons
doesn't do what I wanted it to do
Summary
I downloaded an epub book to my computer and I'll be damned if I can find a reader that will allow me to open anything that's already on my computer! All of the readers I downloaded (this one, Barnes & Nobles and eRead 6) all can only read books you've downloaded using their interface and don't have the ability to open a file on your hard drive (or if you can I sure as hell can't figure out how). Frustrated!<br /><br /><span class='notifyMsg'> Updated </span>on Jun 25, 2010<p/>When trying to activate it I get this: "Activation Error The Activation process has failed because you do not have sufficient access. You need to run as a local administrator to activate Microsoft Reader." Well I'm logged in as an administrator on my computer so this error message is total BS. I'm tired of beating my head against the wall. I'm running Internet Explorer 8 and Windows 7 Home Premium and logged into Microsoft Passport with my Yahoo email address. WTF?
Basic book reader
saintckkJune 13, 2010
Pros
No problem so far, able to read the books I wanted
Cons
Nothing bad, to troublesome to activate
Summary
I downloaded it because I need to read some Lit formatted book, Nothing great! have to activate and sign-up the Live! too troublesome, forget above it!
Okay not great
lwilkyMarch 11, 2010
Pros
Free Runs in windows
Cons
doesn't run on linux doesn't embrace many ebook formats
Summary
Reader is okay, but after trying it I use Calibre. Calibre seems easier, and more universal running on linux and windows, and supporting more ebook formats.

Developer’s Description

Enhance your electronic reading experience.

Microsoft Reader is designed to make your onscreen reading experience as close as possible to reading a printed book. In addition, it adds active reading capabilities, instant access to content, and a personal library. Features include high-resolution ClearType and an add-on dictionary, as well as the ability to bookmark, highlight, annotate, make notes and drawings, and much more. Version 2.1.1 includes a security update that closes known gaps in the Microsoft Reader security architecture.