FAQ: compress a PDF to a target size
How do I reduce a PDF to a given size, for example under 10 MB?
Add your PDF and type the number of megabytes you are allowed. pdf2big tries several quality levels, measures the real size of each result, and gives you the best file that fits under your limit.
Is my PDF uploaded to a server?
No. Everything runs in your browser, on your device, using WebAssembly. Your file is never sent anywhere, so it is safe to use with unpublished work or confidential documents. If you want to be absolutely sure, you can disable the network on your PC once the page is loaded.
Will the quality drop?
Only as much as needed. pdf2big first removes waste (duplicate streams, unused data), then lowers image resolution and quality step by step, and stops as soon as the file fits. Text and vector drawings can be kept untouched.
Why is my portfolio or drawing set so large?
Most of the weight is usually images exported at a resolution far above what the paper size needs, plus the same image embedded several times. Matching the resolution to the sheet size, and merging duplicates, often saves most of the space.
What size limit should I choose?
Use the limit given by the platform you upload to (application portals and email often allow 5 to 25 MB). Image resolution is capped at 300 dpi for the size of your pages by default; you can lower it under Fine-tune.
Is pdf2big free?
Yes. There is no account and no watermark.