How to Fix 'Open with Paint 3D' Not Working

If you're experiencing issues where the "Open with Paint 3D" option isn't working correctly, a common and effective solution is to repair or reset the Paint 3D application through Windows Settings.

Why 'Open with Paint 3D' Might Fail

Several factors can cause Paint 3D not to open files correctly when using the "Open with" option. This could be due to corrupted app files, incorrect file associations, or system glitches. Fortunately, Windows provides built-in tools to address application issues.

The Primary Fix: Repair or Reset Paint 3D

Based on troubleshooting guidance, repairing and resetting your MS Store app helps resolve your issues. This process attempts to fix problems without deleting your data (repair) or fully resets the application, removing its data but often resolving deeper issues (reset).

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Windows Settings.
2. Click on Apps.
3. Select Apps & features.
4. Scroll down or use the search bar to find Paint 3D in the list of installed applications.
5. Click on Paint 3D, then select Advanced options.
6. You will see the Repair button. Click it first. Windows will attempt to fix the app without affecting your data.
7. If the issue persists after clicking Repair, return to the Advanced options page and click the Reset button. Note: Resetting will delete the app's data on your device, which might include custom settings or saved projects within the app itself (though not typically external files you've worked on).
8. After performing either Repair or Reset (especially Reset), it's recommended to restart your device.

Try using "Open with Paint 3D" again after your computer restarts. This method often resolves issues related to the app's core functionality.

Other Troubleshooting Steps

If repairing or resetting Paint 3D doesn't resolve the problem, consider these additional steps:

Check File Associations

Ensure that the file types you are trying to open (like .jpg, .png, .bmp) are correctly associated with Paint 3D or at least recognized by the system.

1. Right-click on the file you want to open.
2. Select Open with.
3. Choose Choose another app.
4. Select Paint 3D from the list.
5. Check the box that says "Always use this app to open .[file extension] files" if you want to set it as the default.

Update Paint 3D and Windows

Ensure both the Paint 3D app and your Windows operating system are up to date. App updates often contain bug fixes.

• Update Paint 3D: Open the Microsoft Store app, go to your Library or Downloads, and check for updates for Paint 3D.
• Update Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for updates.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can sometimes interfere with app functionality. Running SFC and DISM commands can help repair these files.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for cmd, right-click, select "Run as administrator").
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. Let the scan complete.
3. If issues are found or the problem persists, run the DISM command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.
4. Restart your computer after the process is finished.

Reinstall Paint 3D

As a last resort, you can uninstall and then reinstall Paint 3D.

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
2. Find Paint 3D, click it, and select Uninstall.
3. Once uninstalled, open the Microsoft Store app.
4. Search for Paint 3D and click Install.

By following these steps, starting with the recommended repair/reset method, you should be able to resolve the issue of "Open with Paint 3D" not working.