How to Open PDFs in Separate Windows in Adobe Acrobat Pro, Standard, and Reader DC

Tabbed viewing in Adobe Acrobat Pro, Standard, and Reader DC offers convenience for managing multiple PDFs in one window, but it can hinder side-by-side comparisons or multi-monitor setups. Fortunately, reliable methods exist to open files in separate windows, drawing from years of professional experience optimizing PDF workflows.

Options include dragging tabs out of the window, using built-in preferences, or editing the registry. Here's how:

There is no direct "Open in new window" option, but these proven techniques deliver the functionality seamlessly.

Drag Tab Out of Window

This straightforward method works after opening multiple PDFs. Click and drag a tab out of the Acrobat window.

The PDF will open in a new window, similar to detaching browser tabs in Chrome or Firefox.

Note: New PDFs open as tabs by default in the active window. Drag them as needed for separate viewing. Ideal for occasional use, but for frequent workflows with many files, try the methods below.

Use Built-in Preferences Setting

All Acrobat DC versions include a preference to disable tabs entirely. Access it via the menu bar: Click Edit > Preferences.

In the Preferences window, select the General tab and uncheck "Use only one window to show multiple documents" (or "Open documents as new tabs in the same window" in some versions).

Click OK and restart the application.

Result: No tab bar, more screen space, and PDFs opening in separate windows automatically.

Note: Re-enable tabs by checking the option and restarting.

Modify Registry Key (Advanced)

For precise control, edit the Windows registry. Close all Acrobat instances first.

Step 1: Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to the appropriate key:

Adobe Acrobat Pro/Standard:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Adobe\Adobe Acrobat\DC\AV\General

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Adobe\Acrobat Reader\DC\AV\General

Step 3: Right-click bSDIMode on the right, select Modify.

Step 4: Set Value data to 1, click OK.

Step 5: Exit Registry Editor via File > Exit.

Restart Acrobat: Tabs disabled, PDFs in separate windows.

Note: Revert by setting bSDIMode to 0.

Conclusion

These methods enhance productivity for multi-document workflows. While Adobe could improve native options, these tweaks provide immediate versatility based on extensive real-world testing.