How much can I reduce a PDF file size?

Typical results range from 10% to 60% reduction. PDFs with many images compress more than text-only documents.

Does compressing a PDF reduce image quality?

PDFUS uses lossless compression — it removes hidden metadata and optimizes object streams without altering image data.

What is the maximum file size for free users?

Free users can compress PDFs up to 10 MB. Pro users can compress files of any size.

Do my files get uploaded to a server?

No. All processing happens locally in your browser using JavaScript. Your files never leave your device.

Compress PDF Online Free

Reduce PDF file size without quality loss

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Compress PDF Files Online — Free, Fast & Secure

Compressing a PDF reduces its file size while preserving the text, images, and formatting inside. Large PDF files slow down email delivery, get rejected by upload forms, and take up unnecessary storage space. Our free online PDF compressor solves this problem instantly — no software installation, no account required for basic use.

How to compress a PDF in 3 steps

Upload your PDF file by dragging it onto the page or clicking the upload area. The tool loads and processes your document entirely in the browser. In seconds, you receive a smaller PDF file ready to download. The original file is never sent to any server — your data stays private on your device.

Why do PDF files get so large?

PDF size grows due to several factors: high-resolution embedded images, color profiles, embedded fonts, redundant metadata, and multiple document revisions saved into the same file. Our compressor removes unnecessary metadata, optimizes object streams, and strips hidden data layers that accumulate over time. The result is a leaner file that is faster to send and easier to store.

Works on all devices — no installation needed

The PDFUS compressor runs entirely in your browser using modern JavaScript. There is nothing to download or install. It works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge are all supported. Whether you're at a desk or on your phone, you can compress a PDF in under a minute.

Free plan and Pro plan

Free users can compress PDF files up to 10 MB. Pro users get unlimited file size with no restrictions. The Pro plan also unlocks all other PDFUS tools without limits — merge unlimited files, split PDFs of any length, and convert large documents to Word.

Frequently asked questions

Is PDF compression safe for my document?

Yes. The compressor uses lossless optimization — it restructures the internal file data without modifying your text or images. The output is a fully valid, standards-compliant PDF.

How much will my PDF shrink?

Compression results vary. Documents heavy with images can shrink by 30–60%. Text-only PDFs may compress 10–20%. The result panel shows the exact before and after sizes plus the percentage reduction.

Can I compress password-protected PDFs?

Password-protected PDFs cannot be processed. Remove the password protection first using a PDF editor, then compress the file.

What happens if I upload the same PDF twice?

Each upload is treated independently. You can compress a file multiple times, though gains diminish after the first compression since redundant data has already been removed.