How to Print PDF in Color

When it comes to printing your PDF documents, there might be instances where you need to print in color. However, Apple devices and computers may default to black and white printing, which can be frustrating if you need your final copy in full color. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to print PDF in color, ensuring your output matches your expectations.

Before we dive into the specific steps, let's address a common misconception. The choice between black and white or color printing isn't determined by your printer settings but rather by your computer's application settings. Your printer simply receives the instructions as they are given, so it's crucial to adjust these settings within the application (like Adobe Acrobat Reader or Preview) you're using to open your PDF.

Printing PDF in Color on Mac Using Preview

Mac's built-in Preview application is a powerful tool for managing and editing PDF files. Here's how you can print a PDF in color using it:

1. **Open your PDF**: Launch the Preview application and open your PDF file by clicking on 'File' and then 'Open'.

Choose the Print Scaling Option

2. **Check the fit to page option**: In the 'Scale' drop-down menu, choose 'Fit' or 'Actual Size' to ensure your entire document prints in color, eliminating any potential cropping issues.

Select the Color Print Option

3. **Access the show details menu**: Click on the 'Show Details' button at the bottom of the 'Print' dialogue box.

4. **Choose color as your print setting**: Under the 'Paper Handling' section, select 'color' in the 'Pages' subsection. Your Preview application will now instruct your printer to print your PDF in color. Click 'OK' to close the details box.

Printing PDF in Color on Windows Using Adobe Acrobat Reader

Adobe Acrobat Reader is widely used for viewing and managing PDFs. Here's how to print a PDF in color using this software:

1. **Open the PDF**: Launch Adobe Acrobat Reader on your Windows device and open your PDF file.

Setting the Print Quality

2. **Access print settings**: Go to 'File' in the menu bar and select 'Print'. A 'Print' dialogue box will appear.

Choosing the Color Printing Mode

3. **Set the print mode to color**: In the 'Range' section, make sure that 'All' or the specific pages you want to print in color are selected. Then, under the 'Properties' section, in the 'Page Handling' subsection, choose 'Color' from the 'Pages' drop-down menu.

4. **Check your print layout and quality**: To ensure your PDF prints in the correct layout (like portrait or landscape) and at the optimum quality, click on the 'Advanced' button. Here, you can adjust the 'Poster' settings and 'Scaling' if needed. Once satisfied, click 'OK' to exit the dialogue box.