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PDF Icon Definition, Styles, and Free Download Resources (2024)

July 31, 2023 3.9K views

In this digital world, the use of PDF files has become a routine matter.  We come across various types of PDF icons on a daily basis. Whether it's work, education, or routine personal activities, PDF icons are everywhere. This abundance of PDF icons can sometimes cause confusion for the readers. The article will illustrate the purpose and uses of so many different PDF icons. In addition, the article will provide a list of valuable and free PDF icon resources. You can easily download these icons and personalize your PDF documents accordingly.

What is the PDF Icon?

The PDF icon is a graphical representation that is used to indicate the files that have a PDF format. The PDF icon helps you quickly identify and distinguish PDF files from other file types. If you are browsing files on your computer, the PDF icon provides a visual cue that indicates the file is in PDF format. The PDF icon consists of a small red rectangle with the letters "PDF" written in white inside the rectangle.

What Are the Uses of PDF Icons?

There are several uses for a PDF icon:

File Identification:

The first and foremost use of PDF icons is that it helps to identify and distinguish PDF files from other file types.

User interface design:

Another use of PDF icons is the representation of the actions related to PDF files on different websites or interfaces. For example, you can use it as a button or link to initiate PDF document downloads, open PDF files in a viewer, or print PDF documents.

Brand recognition:

The PDF icon has become a brand recognition for Adobe, and this icon reinforces the association of users with the brand.

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Popular Styles of PDF Icons:

There are various styles of PDF icons depending on the color, shape, size, format, and file type. A few popular styles that have emerged on top in recent times are the following:

PDF Icons in Black

The PDF icon in black features the shape of a PDF file represented in black color. The black color scheme provides a sleek and professional appearance, suitable for a wide range of applications and interfaces.

Black PDF Icon


PDF Icons in Red

This PDF icon maintains the shape of a PDF file but uses a red color scheme. Red is the standard color of the PDF icon, and it signifies its importance. This icon is used to draw attention to PDF files or actions related to them. The red PDF icons stand out in interfaces and catch the user's eye.

Red PDF Icon


PDF Icons in Transparent

Transparent PDF icons have no solid background color and blend seamlessly with the background. These icons provide a clean and versatile option, allowing the underlying design elements to show through.

Transparent PDF Icon


PDF Icons for Windows

These icons are specifically designed for Windows operating systems. These icons follow the specific design language and visual style guidelines set by Windows, ensuring consistency with the overall operating system.

PDF Icon for Windows


PDF Icons for Mac

Mac-specific PDF icons are tailored to match the design aesthetics of Mac operating system. These icons incorporate the visual elements and principles of Apple's user interface design, aligning with Mac applications’ overall look and feel.

PDF Icon on MAC


PDF Icons for Mobile

PDF icons for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets are optimized for smaller screens and touch interactions. These icons are designed with simplicity and clarity to ensure easy recognition and touch ability on mobile interfaces.

PDF Icon on Mobiles


PDF Icons in Different Files

These icons represent the PDF format while incorporating the appearance of other file types. For example, a PDF icon with a folded corner or a paperclip may be used to suggest a document-like quality or the ability to attach files.

PDF Icon in different files


PDF Icons in PNG

PDF icons in PNG format are based on graphics that consist of pixels. PNG icons provide high-quality resolution and support transparency, making them suitable for various digital platforms and applications.

PNG Format PDF Icon


PDF Icons in SVG

SVG is also a format for PDF icons which is known as scalable vector graphics. These icons are scaled without loss of quality. SVG icons are ideal for responsive designs, as they can adapt to different screen sizes and resolutions while maintaining sharpness.

SVG Format PDF Icon


PDF Icons in ICO

ICO icons are specifically used in Windows operating systems to represent files, folders, and applications. PDF icons in ICO format are compatible with Windows and can be used for customization purposes, such as changing folder icons or creating shortcuts.

ICO Format PDF Icon


Recommend Sites - PDF Icons Free Download:

1. Vecteezy

Vecteezy is one of the popular platforms that provide free and paid vector graphics. There are various types of pdf icons available on Vecteezy. The advantage of using this website is that you search for your required icon based on various filter criteria.

These filter criteria include the format of the icon, the licence type, color, and orientation of the icons. In addition, the website provides a wide range of PDF symbols in different styles, designs, and themes. You can simply choose the icons that best fit your requirements.

Website layout of Vecteezy


2. Freepik

Freepik is another popular website known for providing a vast collection of graphic resources, including vector graphics, illustrations, icons, photos, and templates. It offers a wide range of high-quality, professionally designed icons that can be used for various purposes, such as web design, presentations, marketing materials, and more. This website also provides you the opportunity to filter the available icons as per your personal preferences based on the file type, format, color, orientation, licensing, etc.

Website layout of Freepik

3. Flaticon

Flaticon website is also a well-known website for being one of the largest icon databases available online. It specializes in providing a vast collection of high-quality icons that you can use in various digital and graphic design projects. The platform features an intuitive search and filtering system that enables you to find the desired icons quickly. You can search by keywords, categories, styles, and even specific icon packs.

Website layout of Flaticon

4. Icons8

Icons8 is a similar website known for providing a wide range of icons, logos, illustrations, photos, and design resources. From simple line icons to detailed illustrations, you can find a diverse range of icons on this website. Moreover, the platform offers an icon generator tool that allows you to create custom icons based on your preferences. You can select different elements, styles, and colors, and the tool will generate a unique pdf logo for you to use in your designs.

Website layout of Icons8

Adobe PDF Icons

Adobe is a leading software company known for its wide range of creative, design, and productivity tools. The Adobe PDF icons are visual representations of the PDF file format developed by Adobe Systems. These PDF logos serve as a visual shorthand for documents that can be opened and viewed using Adobe Acrobat Reader or other PDF readers.

The design of Adobe PDF icons has evolved over time, adapting to the visual language of different operating systems and user interface trends. However, the company generally maintains a similar concept, featuring the distinct combination of a document page and the Adobe logo, often with a characteristic red color scheme. These icons play a crucial role in user experience, providing a visual cue that helps users quickly identify PDF files among other file formats. The Adobe PDF symbols can be downloaded from the official website of Adobe.

Adobe PDF Icons

FAQs

Q1: How do I change an icon to a PDF icon?

You can simply change the icon on your PDF by following these steps:

  • Right-click on your file and go to the properties

  • Click on the change button

  • Choose Adobe PDF from the list of programs to open the file

  • The icon of the file will be changed to PDF

Q2: How to get back my disappeared pdf icon for PDF files?

You can fix your taskbar missing icons in the following simple steps:

  • Right-click on the empty space on the taskbar

  • Click on the taskbar settings button

  • From the notification area, click on “Select which icons appear on the taskbar.”

  • Toggle the button with the icon that you want to display on the taskbar

The article discusses the significance and purpose of PDF icons in various digital environments. The article further highlights the different designs, trends, and variations in PDF logos across operating systems and user interfaces. Various websites that provide free PDF symbols have also been listed in the article.

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15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.