Compress PDF.
Reduce PDF file size while preserving text by default, with an optional image-based mode for scans.
Your documents stay on your device. No sign-up needed.
How to use Compress PDF
- 01
Choose a PDF. Keep the default text-preserving mode, or choose image-based compression for scans.
- 02
Choose image quality only if you opt into image-based compression.
- 03
Compress and compare actual sizes before downloading.
Choose what the smaller file needs to preserve
Use the default lossless mode for documents with selectable text or form fields. Image-based mode can help with scans, but it turns every page into a picture and removes interactive features. The result depends on the original file; there is no fixed reduction percentage or guaranteed target size.
Make room without reducing image quality
Sometimes the best first step is to remove a blank scan or send only the relevant pages with Extract PDF Pages. For a strict upload limit, follow the 2 MB PDF guide and check both the downloaded size and readability.
Frequently asked questions
What happens to text and links?
The default lossless mode recompresses PDF streams without rasterising pages and preserves text. Optional image-based mode removes searchable text, links, forms, bookmarks and accessibility tags. Keep your original.
Will every PDF become smaller?
No. PDFs that are already optimised can become larger. If that happens, the tool tells you and keeps your original available.
Is this PDF tool free?
Yes. All 15 tools are free to use without an account. Large or complex PDFs may exceed your browser’s available memory; try a smaller file or a computer if that happens.
Can I use password-protected PDFs?
Use Unlock PDF with a valid password first, if you are authorised to remove protection. These editing tools require an unencrypted PDF.