How to compress a PDF
- Choose your PDF. Drag it into the box above, or click to select it.
- Pick a compression level. Light keeps everything intact, Recommended balances size and quality, and Maximum makes the smallest file.
- Compress and download. You'll see the before and after sizes. If the file can't get smaller, you get the original back.
Why use PDFLad to compress a PDF
Your file stays private
Most online converters upload your file to their server. PDFLad does the work in your browser, so nothing you compress a PDF ever leaves your device.
Free, with no catches
No sign-up, no email address, no watermark and no limit on how many files you convert.
You see the savings
Every result shows the original size, the new size and the percentage saved, so you know whether it's small enough.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to compress a PDF?
Yes. Compress as many PDFs as you like, free and without a watermark.
Is my PDF uploaded?
No. Compression happens on your own device, which keeps confidential documents private.
How much smaller will my PDF get?
It depends on what's inside. PDFs full of scans and photos usually shrink the most. Text-only PDFs are often small already.
Will the text still be selectable?
With Light compression, yes. Recommended and Maximum convert pages to compressed images, so text can't be selected afterwards.
Why didn't my file get smaller?
Some PDFs are already well optimised. When compression can't help, PDFLad gives you the original file back. Try a stronger level for a bigger reduction.