Optimize PDF
How to compress a PDF and keep it readable
Good PDF compression is a balance between a smaller file and pages that remain clear enough for their real purpose.
Reviewed by PDFKaka ·
Choose a sensible quality level
Use a higher setting for contracts, forms, diagrams, and small print. Lower quality may be suitable for quick previews or photo-heavy reference copies.
- Open Compress PDF and select the document.
- Choose a moderate quality level first.
- Create the compressed copy and compare its size.
Review the pages that matter most
Zoom into fine print, signatures, charts, and screenshots. A file that meets an upload limit is not useful if essential information becomes unreadable.
- Open the result in PDF Reader.
- Inspect the smallest text and detailed images.
- Repeat with a higher setting if clarity is insufficient.
Keep the original document
Compression creates a new file. Keep the original when selectable text, links, form fields, signatures, or maximum image detail may be needed later.
- Save the compressed copy with a clear filename.
- Retain the original separately.
- Share only the version suitable for the recipient.
Tools used in this workflow
Frequently asked questions
Why did searchable text disappear?
This compressor rebuilds pages as images. That can reduce size, but it does not preserve selectable text or interactive PDF features.
Why is a text-only PDF not much smaller?
Text and vector content can already be compact. This workflow is most effective for scanned and image-heavy documents.