How much will my PDF shrink?

It depends on the content. PDFs with large embedded images see the biggest reduction — often 50-80% smaller with the Screen preset. Text-heavy PDFs with few images may see modest savings.

Does compression affect text quality?

No. Text and vector graphics remain sharp at any preset. Only embedded raster images are downsampled based on the preset DPI.

Which preset should I choose?

Use Screen (72 DPI) for email or web viewing. Ebook (150 DPI) is the best all-around choice. Use Printer or Prepress only when you need to print the PDF at high quality.

Why is this server-only?

PDF compression uses Ghostscript, a professional PDF processing engine that requires a native binary. It's not available in browser WebAssembly.

Compress PDF Online Free — Reduce PDF File Size

How to Use Compress PDF

Upload the PDF you want to compress
Choose a compression preset (ebook is recommended for most uses)
Click Process to compress the PDF
Download the compressed PDF

Features

Reduce PDF file size with 4 quality presets
Screen mode (72 DPI) for smallest files — great for email
Ebook mode (150 DPI) for a good balance of size and quality
Printer/Prepress modes for high-quality output

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will my PDF shrink?: It depends on the content. PDFs with large embedded images see the biggest reduction — often 50-80% smaller with the Screen preset. Text-heavy PDFs with few images may see modest savings.
Does compression affect text quality?: No. Text and vector graphics remain sharp at any preset. Only embedded raster images are downsampled based on the preset DPI.
Which preset should I choose?: Use Screen (72 DPI) for email or web viewing. Ebook (150 DPI) is the best all-around choice. Use Printer or Prepress only when you need to print the PDF at high quality.
Why is this server-only?: PDF compression uses Ghostscript, a professional PDF processing engine that requires a native binary. It's not available in browser WebAssembly.

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