Compress PDF
Reduce file size for email and uploads. Text stays sharp and selectable.
- 100% freeNo sign-up needed
- Works in your browserNo upload to a server
- Secure and privateFiles stay on your device
Add your PDF files
Drop your files anywhere on this page, or choose them from your device.
- Processed on your deviceNothing is uploaded
- No file size limitUse as much as you need
- No waitingNo upload or download step
- Safe and privateYour files never leave your device
How to compress a PDF
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Add files
Add one or more PDFs.
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Choose a level
Pick how hard to compress: light, balanced or strong.
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Compress and download
Select Compress PDF and download the smaller file.
Make a PDF smaller without losing readability
This PDF compressor reduces file size by re-saving the pictures inside the document at a lower resolution and quality and by packing the rest of the file more tightly. Text and vector drawings are not touched, so they stay sharp and selectable. Choose Light, Balanced or Strong depending on how small the file needs to be. If a file cannot be made smaller, you get the original back rather than a larger one.
Good to know
Answers to common questions about Compress PDF.
How does it make the file smaller?
Pictures inside the PDF are resized and re-saved at a lower quality, and the file structure is packed more tightly. Text and vector graphics are left as they are.
Why did my file barely shrink?
PDFs that are mostly text and drawings, or whose pictures were already compressed, have little left to remove. If nothing can be saved you get your original file back unchanged.
Is the file still good for printing?
For office and home printing, yes. Pictures stored in print colours (CMYK) are saved in screen colours (RGB), which look the same on screen. For professional printing, send the print shop your original file.
Which level should I pick?
Balanced suits most documents. Use Strong for the smallest file when images only need to be readable on screen, and Light when images must stay print quality.
Is my file uploaded anywhere?
No. Compress PDF runs inside your browser tab and your file never leaves your device. Close the tab and nothing remains.
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