I need to open and search PDFs on my Android phone, mostly class handouts and occasional forms. Is there a reliable free reader that keeps basic features available without a subscription?
It is annoying when even basic readers push subscriptions. Honestly, I would first try Google Drive or Files by Google, since one of those is usually already on an Android phone. Both can open PDFs and use the standard viewer for searching text in handouts or forms. If the search icon is missing, I would check for a system update before installing anything else.
Xodo works well for that. Free, fast search, handles forms fine, no nagging subscription screens. Adobe Reader’s free tier also does search and fill-and-sign, but it’s heavier then it needs to be. I keep Xodo on my phone for quick document checks and it’s been solid.
Adobe Acrobat Reader is still a solid free choice for opening and searching PDFs on Android, though you may see prompts for paid extras. Tip: download files locally if you need them on the go, and avoid random reader apps that ask for access to contacts or messages.
Google Drive’s built-in viewer is what I use first on a tablet for handouts, and it can search text in normal PDFs without asking for a subscription. For forms, Adobe Acrobat Reader is also reliable for viewing and basic filling. I would avoid readers that promise lots of extras but immediately require an account.