How to compress
Choose the file
Pick a PDF or drop it on the box.
Pick a level
“Recommended” suits most files; “Strong” gives the smallest file.
Compress and download
Press “Compress and download” and see the size before and after.
What each level does
Compression works on the images inside the file: they are downscaled to a maximum resolution (DPI) and saved again as JPG at the given quality.
| Level | Max image resolution | JPG quality | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strong | 96 DPI | 50% | Email, WhatsApp and small upload limits |
| Recommended | 150 DPI | 70% | Most files, on-screen reading and normal printing |
| Light | 220 DPI | 85% | Files with images that need fine detail |
Tips
Scans and photos shrink the most: a scanner saves each page as a large image, so bringing it down to 150 DPI often halves the size or better.
Text-only files change little: text and fonts are already compressed. If the file doesn’t get smaller we tell you and never hand you a bigger one.
Need a specific size? If the file is still over an upload limit (like 1 MB), try “Strong” or pick a lower resolution in the advanced settings.
FAQ
Can I still copy the text after compressing?
Yes. Only images are compressed; text, fonts and links stay as they are, so the text remains selectable and searchable.
How do I compress a PDF to under 1 MB?
Choose “Strong”. If it’s still too big, open the advanced settings and pick 72 DPI and a lower quality. Very long files may need splitting with Split PDF.
Why didn’t my file get smaller?
If the file is text without images, or its images are already well compressed, there is nothing to shrink without damaging the content. We tell you and keep your file as it is.
What about transparent images and logos?
Images with transparency, or ones JPG would visibly damage (like line art and logos with few colors), are left untouched.
Are my files uploaded?
No. The file is read and processed inside your browser. It is never sent to a server and we keep no copy.
Why won’t my protected file open?
If the file is password-protected, remove the protection first with Unlock PDF (you need the password), then try again.