FOXIT PDF - Trialware or... ?

[Ulf_K]

On the support software download section for my Z420, I can see that amongst BIOS, drivers, etc there are also FOXIT PDF available. Is the software available a time limited version that expires? Since Windows nowadays also provides a .PDF-writer, is there any advantage of installing Foxit?

[Dragon-Fur · Accepted solution]

@Ulf_K 

Welcome to the HP Community.

Entirely your choice.

Foxit PhantomPDF Express - User Guide

Foxit and Adobe are similar products - each offer standard "reader" versions for free that support opening and printing of standard PDF files.  Both companies offer "upgraded" versions of their product for those who are more invested in PDF files and what can be done with the format.

Not sure about a Windows embedded PDF reader.

On the low end - free "Reader" versions:  Foxit and Adobe Reader versions both do a fairly decent job of simplifying and printing documents in booklet format, for example.   Both products are easy to use and provide direct supporting access to the printer "Properties" (Printing Preferences - Shortcuts / options) during job setup.

What about the Foxit Phantom full line of products?

If you wish to do so, take a look and decide whether you want or need the purchased product.

Yes, you can choose to ignore the proffered software in your Software and Drivers support page.

Example

Foxit - Home Page

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The Community is a separate wing of the HP website - We are not an HP business group.

Our Community is comprised of volunteers - people who own and use HP devices.

Click Helpful = Yes to say Thank You.

Question / Concern Answered, Click "Accept as Solution"

[itsmyname]

@Ulf_K & @Dragon-Fur -- Not sure about a Windows embedded PDF reader.

It is part of the Microsoft Edge web-browser. Probably, also part of Google Chrome.

QED

[jimmy12a]

I'm using hp business notebooks for some years now and to me the pre-installed version of Foxit PhantomPDF Express rather appers to be a trial teasing the user to buy the original from foxit. There have never been any updates available and obviously it has to be removed when trying to use the latest version of the standard you are advised to uninstall the pre-installed version upfront as described in the foxit knowledge base:

https://kb.foxitsoftware.com/hc/en-us/articles/360040241732-You-cannot-upgrade-Foxit-PhantomPDF-for-...

Anyway I prefer foxit or adobe reader to the ebedded reader in the edge browser as the features to comment documents are more convenient in my opinion. If you are using those features be aware that they may be available  for editing only for the product where you have added the comments. If you open the commented pdfs other products the are often not distinct from the original content. Hence there is a kind of lock in situation if you use those features. I like them anyway.