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Compress PDF for printing

Print shops take files by email or through upload forms with size limits. Light compression trims what the file does not need, while images keep the resolution printing requires.

Three steps

  1. 01

    Add a PDF

    Drop the file in or pick it from your device.

  2. 02

    Pick a level

    Move the slider and watch the size estimate.

  3. 03

    Download

    Your compressed file is ready in seconds.

Use cases

Pick what the file is for and PDFKilo picks the compression level for your exact document.

Why PDFKilo

Fully private

Ghostscript runs in WebAssembly on your device. Not a single byte of your file reaches a server.

Accurate estimate

Before compressing, we sample the first pages and show the expected size for the chosen level.

No watermarks

No logos stamped on pages, no sign-up and no limit on the number of files.

Never worse

If compression does not help, you get the original back rather than a bigger file.

FAQ

Can I send the result to a print shop?

For digital printing, copy shops and office printers, yes. For offset jobs with strict colour and bleed requirements, ask the printer whether they accept a rebuilt PDF.

How much smaller will my layout get?

It depends on the images. Layouts with uncompressed photos often shrink 2–5 times even at the light level.

Are fonts kept?

Yes. Fonts stay embedded with only the characters you use, so text looks the same on any printer.

Can I print a heavily compressed file?

You can, but photos will look softer. For printing, pick the "For printing" use case or a level of 30 or lower.

How do I email a big layout to a print shop?

Compress it below 18 MB and it will go out as a normal Gmail or Outlook attachment.

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