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Compress PDF

Shrink large PDF files without losing readability, so they're easier to email, upload, or store.

Select PDF files

or drag and drop files here

Got a password-protected PDF? Unlock it here first

How to compress a PDF

1

Upload your file

Select the PDF file you wish to compress from your device, or simply drag and drop it directly into the designated drop zone.

2

Choose compression level

Select 'Extreme' for maximum size reduction, 'Recommended' for a perfect balance of quality and size, or 'Less' for lossless structural compression.

3

Download optimized PDF

Click 'Compress PDF' to securely process your file. Once finished, instantly download your vastly smaller, optimized document.

How to Compress PDF

1

Upload your large file

Drag and drop the oversized PDF you need to shrink into the upload area.

2

Select compression level

Choose "Extreme" for the smallest file size, "Recommended" for a standard balance, or "Less" to retain maximum image quality.

3

Download optimized PDF

Click "Compress" and your browser will quickly optimize the file. Download your lighter PDF immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much smaller will my PDF actually get?
It depends on the content. Image-heavy PDFs (scans, photo reports) can shrink by up to 80%, while text-only documents usually see a more modest 10–30% reduction since there's less to optimize.
Will my PDF look blurry after compressing?
Only if you choose "Extreme," which trades some image sharpness for the smallest possible file. "Recommended" is built to keep text crisp and images clear while still cutting the file down significantly.
Is there a file size limit for compression?
Compression runs on your own device, so the practical ceiling is your available RAM rather than a fixed cap — most laptops and phones handle files up to 100MB comfortably.
What's the difference between the compression levels?
"Less" applies lossless, structure-only compression with no visible quality change. "Recommended" balances size and quality for everyday sharing. "Extreme" prioritizes the smallest file, which can slightly soften high-resolution images.
Can I compress a PDF that's already been compressed once?
Yes, though gains will be smaller the second time around — once images and streams are already optimized, there's simply less redundant data left to strip out.

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