Adobe Reader vs. Adobe Pro DC - Which product do you need?

Do you need to view, sign, or collaborate on PDF files, or do you need a more advanced solution? Many users think they need a more robust product than they truly do. Acrobat Reader is a free solution that takes care of the needs of most users.

Adobe Reader 
is a free, streamlined solution that meets the needs of most users for everyday PDF tasks.

Adobe Acrobat Pro i ncludes all the capabilities of Reader, along with advanced tools for creating, editing, securing, and managing PDF documents.

👉 See the comparison chart below for a full breakdown of features


Which should you use?

If your needs are basic, such as viewing, filling out forms, or signing documents, Adobe Reader is typically sufficient.
If your work requires more advanced document creation, editing, or workflow capabilities, Adobe Acrobat Pro is recommended.


Availability

Students

Students should utilize Adobe Reader. 

Access to Adobe Acrobat Pro may be available through specific courses where it is required and approved.

👉 To download Adobe Reader for free, please click here

Faculty and Staff
 

Faculty and staff now have access to Adobe Acrobat Pro at no cost, but must activate their license before use.

👉 To activate your Adobe Acrobat Pro license please click here


Faculty and staff may also request access to Adobe Sign, which provides enhanced signing work flows, tracking, and automation features beyond standard PDF signing.

👉 To activate your Adobe Sign license, please click here

If you need to further explore the differences between these products, please feel free to reach out to ETAC at (919) 530-7676 to discuss your options, as we can assist in helping you to make the right decision. 

 

 

100% helpful - 1 review
Print Article

Related Articles (1)

This walks you through the steps of adding your signature to a .pdf document with Adobe Reader.