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MilesGrove's avatar
MilesGrove
Iron Contributor
Apr 11, 2025

Free PDF Reader With Search

I am running 24H2 Build 26100.3624 and Win 11 x64 Pro

What are the best free PDF readers that include the ability to run a text search?

I remembered the first name of someone who is included in a PDF directory but not the last name.

I have PDF24 installed along with PDF Architect. If it is possible to search a document, it is not intuitive.

I am retired, 85, and no longer need a professional program

thanks

3 Replies

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  • ThomasKing's avatar
    ThomasKing
    Iron Contributor
    Jun 11, 2025

    For your needs (simple, easy search), I recommend Sumatra PDF for quick and straightforward use, or F0xit Reader if you want a bit more features but still easy to navigate.

  • CameronFord's avatar
    CameronFord
    Iron Contributor
    Jun 09, 2025

    When searching for a name or partial name, make sure the document's text is selectable — some scanned PDFs are images, and text search won't work unless OCR (Optical Character Recognition) has been applied.

  • Shakeare's avatar
    Shakeare
    Iron Contributor
    Jun 05, 2025

    Microsoft Edge comes with a built-in PDF reader, support text search function you try!

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