How to View and Use PDF, XPS, and TIFF Files with the Reader App in Windows

The Reader app, developed by Microsoft, is included in the standard Windows experience, making it a handy tool for viewing various document formats such as PDF, XPS, and TIFF. Although many users rely on third-party applications for this purpose, the Reader app offers a user-friendly and integrated solution available in Windows 8.1 and Windows 10.

NOTE: This guide applies to computers and devices running Windows 10 and Windows 8.1.

How to Start the Reader App in Windows 8.1 and Windows 10

In Windows 8.1, the Reader app comes bundled with the operating system. Here’s how to start it:

Locate the app through your list of applications and click on its shortcut.
Alternatively, type its name on the Start screen and select it from the results.
For Windows 10 users, look for the app in the Apps list or type "reader" into Cortana's search box.

How to start the Reader app in Windows

How to Open PDF, XPS, and TIFF Files in the Reader App

If the Reader app is set as the default application for PDF, XPS, and TIFF files, simply double-click on the file to open it.

If you need to set the Reader app as the default for these formats, check out this guide: The easy way to set your default apps in Windows 8.1 & Windows 10.

Opening files in the Reader app

How to Open Multiple Files Simultaneously in the Reader App

The Reader app allows simultaneous opening of multiple documents. Here's how:

Open the first file, then right-click or swipe upwards on the screen.
Click the "Open another file" button.
Select "Open file in new tab" from the dropdown menu.

NOTE: You can only open five files at a time; exceeding this limit will close the oldest file.

How to Open Files in a New Window in the Reader App

If you need to view two files simultaneously, start by opening the first file. Then, right-click on it and select the "Open in a new window" option from the menu that appears.

Conclusion

The Microsoft Reader app offers a straightforward and effective way to manage and view your PDF, XPS, and TIFF files. With a range of functionalities, from opening multiple files to printing, this guide provides you with all the essential tips to enhance your productivity. For further information, please refer to the relevant sections in this article.

Tags: #Reader app #PDF #XPS #TIFF

37 Comments

Rachel B. - 02/19/2025 05:39

Am I the only one who thinks the Reader app is underrated? It handles files really well
Huyền Lizzie - 02/19/2025 07:47

So happy I stumbled upon this article! It’s been a lifesaver for my projects dealing with various file formats
Tina W. - 02/19/2025 21:32

I just want to say how grateful I am for articles like this! They empower users to explore tech
Nancy Green - 02/20/2025 22:36

If anyone’s having trouble with XPS files, the Reader app is super intuitive! You won’t regret trying it
Bobby H - 02/22/2025 00:34

The interface of the Reader app is clean and simple. Makes my life so much easier!
Petey the Cat - 02/22/2025 14:31

After reading this, I’m going to give the Reader app a shot for my school projects. Fingers crossed
Jessie & Friends - 02/24/2025 17:17

This guide is so well-explained! I will definitely be sharing it with my study group
Rudy Tech - 02/25/2025 13:42

I totally agree! I shared this with my colleagues so they could ease their workloads too
Chloe99 - 02/27/2025 02:18

If you're struggling with PDFs, definitely read this! It changed my approach to file management!
David 1234 - 02/27/2025 07:07

Pretty cool info! I just used the Reader app for XPS files and it worked great! Highly recommend!
Tommy - 02/27/2025 17:12

Great read! You should also check out the settings for better performance
Kathy White - 03/02/2025 00:59

I’ve found that the Reader app really streamlines my workflow with PDFs. Love it!
Sarah082 - 03/02/2025 06:48

I was curious about the different file types. This answered a lot of my questions about viewing methods!
Owen & Co - 03/04/2025 01:47

I used to feel lost with file types. This guide made everything clear! Thanks!
Kevin - 03/05/2025 01:06

Anyone else think that reading PDFs on a computer is better than on mobile? Just me
Mèo con - 03/05/2025 04:22

Wow, I can't believe I was missing out on how to view TIFF files easily! Thanks for the guide
Jenna - 03/09/2025 03:44

If anyone has tips on organizing all these files using the Reader app, I'd love to hear them!
Rachel - 03/11/2025 17:08

I wish I had known this sooner! I wasted so much time trying to convert files before finding this method
Hương KT - 03/12/2025 22:53

I really appreciate the step-by-step instructions! It makes it so easy to view files without stress.
Andy IT - 03/12/2025 23:44

Came here looking for info and ended up learning something new today! Thanks!
Sara Wilson - 03/14/2025 17:25

Question! Can the Reader app annotate PDF files as well? I need to add comments for my study notes.
Beta Geek - 03/15/2025 00:58

Can’t wait to try out the Reader app for TIFF files! I was always using separate software for that!
Linda M. - 03/17/2025 15:36

Why didn’t I find this sooner? It’s such a lifesaver for anyone dealing with documents
Claire - 03/18/2025 08:46

Does anyone know if the Reader app supports batch printing for PDF files? That would be a game changer!
Mike 45 - 03/20/2025 00:40

OMG! I just tried it out and it works like a charm! I'm going to share this with my friends
Zoe xoxo - 03/21/2025 14:42

Just tried using the Reader app for PDFs, and I love the new features! Makes reading so much easier
Quang vn - 03/22/2025 23:21

Could someone explain how to set this app to default for all PDF files? I find it quite annoying switching every time
Linh mèo - 03/24/2025 15:17

I had no idea TIFF files could be opened with the Reader app. How many other formats am I missing
Emily Smith - 03/25/2025 02:19

This article is super helpful! I never knew I could use the Reader app to view TIFF files. Just what I needed!
John Doe - 03/25/2025 07:56

Thanks for sharing this! I've always struggled with PDF files, but it looks like the Reader app makes it easier to manage them
Frank IT - 03/25/2025 22:03

I use the Reader app daily for my work, and these tips are going to be super useful
Max The Dog - 03/30/2025 03:31

This article made me feel like a tech wizard! Thanks for breaking everything down!
Gerry P - 03/30/2025 03:42

I wish I'd known about all these features earlier. The Reader app has totally upgraded my document handling
Sam Lee - 03/31/2025 16:25

I've been using the Reader app for months and didn’t realize it could handle TIFFs. Such a nice surprise
Nick J. - 04/01/2025 20:13

For those who still have questions about using the Reader app, there are tons of forums online for troubleshooting
Cathy C. - 04/03/2025 11:24

Just had an issue with a corrupt PDF and learned the Reader app could help recover it. Amazing!
Panda Paws - 04/03/2025 17:47

I love how user-friendly the Reader app is! It seriously saved me a lot of headaches this week

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