Compress PDF: how it works
Scanned documents and PDFs full of photos can be tens of megabytes. FileStripe re-renders each page as an optimised JPEG at the resolution you choose and rebuilds the PDF, which often reduces scanned PDFs by 70-90%.
Because pages are converted to images, text in the compressed copy is no longer selectable. For text-only PDFs the original may already be smaller; FileStripe shows you both sizes so you can decide.
How to compress PDF files
- Choose a PDF.
- Pick a compression level (DPI and quality).
- Compare sizes and download.
Features
- Big savings on scansOften 70-90% smaller.
- AdjustableDPI and JPEG quality.
- Size comparisonSee before and after.
- PrivateConfidential PDFs stay local.
Frequently asked questions
How do I compress a PDF to under 1 MB?
Choose the 'Small' preset (100 DPI, quality 55). For long documents also try splitting the PDF.
Will text remain searchable?
No, pages become images. Keep the original if you need selectable text.
Is the Compress PDF free?
Yes. The Compress PDF is completely free with no sign-up, no watermarks, no daily limits and no premium tier.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
No. FileStripe processes your files locally in your web browser using JavaScript. Nothing is uploaded, so the Compress PDF is safe for private photos and confidential documents and even works offline once the page has loaded.
Does it work on iPhone and Android?
Yes. The Compress PDF works in Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Edge and Samsung Internet on phones, tablets and computers. On a phone you can pick files from your photo library or files app and share the result straight to another app.
Last updated · Processing happens locally in your browser.