How to compress a PDF and reduce its file size

A PDF is too large to send? Try compression, then compare the saved result with the original before sharing it.

Step by step

1. 1. Open Compress PDF

   Select your PDF in the Compress PDF tool. Check the original file size shown on the page.

2. 2. Choose a compression level

   Choose Light for more detail, Recommended for a balance, or Maximum for stronger compression. The best setting depends on the document.

3. 3. Compress and download

   Press Compress PDF to generate and download the result.

4. 4. Review readability

   Check small text, photos, charts and QR codes. If important details are unclear, retry with a lighter setting and keep the original.

Frequently asked questions

How much smaller will my PDF be?

There is no guaranteed reduction. Image-heavy scans may shrink substantially; a PDF that is already optimized may shrink little or not at all.

Will compression affect quality?

It can reduce image detail. Check fine print and graphics rather than assuming the original quality or text properties are preserved.

Will it meet an email attachment limit?

Check your email provider’s limit and the size of the output. Compression does not guarantee a target size.

Is compression free?

Without an account you get 3 free processings on this device; a free account gives you 5 per month, up to 15 MB per file. Premium increases usage and file-size limits and adds cloud storage.