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Compress a PDF

Reduce a PDF’s file size to get under an upload limit. Choose how hard to compress, see the before-and-after size, and download — all in your browser, nothing uploaded.

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Get under the upload limit

Portals often reject a PDF for being too large. This tool rebuilds the document at a smaller size so it fits. It works best on scanned or image-heavy PDFs — the kind that are usually too big — because it re-renders each page and re-compresses the imagery.

Choosing a level

Light keeps pages crisp with a modest size cut. Balanced is a good default. Strong makes the smallest file but softens detail. You’ll see the exact before-and-after size before downloading, so you can try another level if needed. The file never leaves your device.

Frequently asked questions

How do I compress a PDF?

Drop your PDF in, choose a level — Light, Balanced or Strong — and tap Compress. You’ll see the before and after size, then download the smaller file.

Why did my PDF not get much smaller?

Compression works by re-rendering each page as an image, so scanned or photo-heavy PDFs shrink a lot, but a PDF that is mostly text is already efficient and won’t reduce much. Try a stronger level for a smaller file.

Will the quality drop?

A little — this is lossy compression. Light keeps pages crisp; Strong makes the smallest file but softer pages. Pick the balance that still looks acceptable for your use.

Is my PDF uploaded?

No. The whole process runs in your browser on your own device. Nothing is sent to a server, so your document stays private.