Working as a photo studio marketer, I frequently handle PDF files containing high-quality photos. Such PDFs are rather large, so sharing them via email or collaboration platforms is troublesome. Typically, I have to compress them before sending.
I frequently rely on PDF compressors online to shrink file sizes without sacrificing quality when I need it quickly. Thus, it has become simpler to share documents with clients and partners.
In this overview, I'll test some of the top free online tools, using a promotional brochure from our photo studio. It is packed with high-quality images and has a file size of 8 MB. During the test, I will consider the following aspects:
Compression degree. I'll gauge the extent to which the file size is reduced. This is pivotal because I want to receive files that are small enough for easy handling and exchanging.
Output quality. The overall quality of the compressed document is very important. The main factors in this case are clarity and sharpness of images. No wonder, users want pictures that are clear and sharp, especially if they are intended for marketing purposes.
Processing time. I'll also be assessing how long it takes to compress the file. Undoubtedly, a higher processing speed is indispensable for quicker workflow.
Interface usability. I'll consider the ease of use and intuitiveness of compressors. When the UI is straightforward, it is possible to complete the processes without any problems.
Extra functionalities. I'll take into account any additional tools offered by the service for PDF manipulation. It can be instruments for editing, merging, and splitting PDFs. Besides, I’ll prioritize AI features.
Security. Data security is crucial. I will learn how the files are managed, whether they are encrypted during transfer, and how long they are kept on the server. Never underestimate security, especially if you want to protect sensitive or proprietary stuff.
Best for compression & sharing
This Adobe product processes PDF files incredibly quickly. When I tested this PDF compressor online, I waited only 5 seconds for the service to compress my 8 MB document to less than 1.5 MB. The quality of a processed file was very impressive. I like that here I can choose the level of compression, from High (to get the smallest file size in standard quality) to Low (the output quality is better, but it weighs more).
I can compress PDF files in Adobe Acrobat directly through the browser itself or using a Chrome extension. In addition, the service offers a chat with an AI assistant. It can help highlight key insights in my document, make a summary for sending by email, etc.
You can also edit, convert, and add an electronic signature to your PDF online. Once done, I just have to download a file, store it online, or share it. The program is available for free. Besides, you can try the advanced premium version with a subscription starting at $23.99/mo.
Browser extension
This is a good option if you need a free online PDF compressor with some additional features. It is quite simple, so even beginners will figure out how to use it.
I was impressed with the speed of PDF processing. Compressing my 8MB file to 2MB took about 7 seconds. I liked that the finished file can be previewed before downloading. Upon completion, the service offered me other tools for working with the file – merge, edit, convert, and summarize with AI.
This Adobe Acrobat alternative is free but allows compressing just 2 files daily. To get rid of this limitation, you need to buy a subscription for $9/month. The paid version contains a variety of features to work with your PDF. You can use both online tools and download a desktop version by purchasing a premium plan.
Available for smartphones
PDF2GO differs from the other services on my list because it comes with ready-made presets for compressing PDF files, in addition to compression levels. You can choose compression for eBook, printer, and prepress that preserves the original colors.
I really liked this feature because I focus on photo quality in my work. Moreover, this PDF editor app can convert images to grayscale or remove them before the compression starts, which is also very convenient because I don't have to do it manually when needed.
It compressed my 8MB file to 1.5MB in 10 seconds, which is also impressive. The file and photos remained in high quality. It is very important to me. I also liked that there are many other tools for working with PDFs. The sharing is possible via a QR code. The premium version costs €5.50/month.
Batch PDF compression
With this online PDF compressor, I managed to reduce the size of my files without sacrificing their quality. I appreciate that it is possible to add files from cloud storage or a computer. In addition, there are 3 compression levels. Moreover, this software has other handy tools for working with PDF documents, like, e-signing, document protection, and PPT to PDF converter.
Compressing my file of about 8 MB to 1.5MB took no more than 10 seconds. This tool did a good job with my images as it doesn’t degrade their original quality. You can use it for free if you’re OK with limitations on the number of files and their size. The Premium plan has no restrictions. It costs €4/month when paid annually.
Completely free
This PDF online compressor copes well with the task. It compressed my 8 MB document to 2.4 MB in about 10 seconds. This is not the best result both in terms of speed and initial file weight, despite the fact that the service states that maximum compression is set by default. However, the quality of the document is good and it did not spoil the picture.
This fillable PDF creator stands out with its convenient drag-and-drop interfaces. I also like its handy features for managing PDFs – from conversion to e-signing.
In addition, the service offers a convenient WordPress plugin for publishers. As for the sharing options, they disappointed me. Here you can only copy the URL to the finished document.
Limitless compression
I like that DocFly offers unlimited PDF compression absolutely for free. However, its other features, such as PDF conversion, are limited to only three documents per month in a free version, which is far behind the competition. The premium version costs $3.99 per month.
The service compressed my 8 MB file in 15 seconds to 4.7 MB with the highest compression setting, which is the worst result in my test. The file quality is also not the best, but for basic needs, it is a good program. DocFly has rich functionality for editing a PDF file after compression, including a JPG to PDF converter.
The key requirement for such services is the ability to reduce file size while maintaining quality. In addition, you should consider such factors as processing speed, user-friendly interface, batch processing, and file size limits. Double-check that your files remain confidential and secure.
Numerous online PDF compression tools can manage the balance between reducing file size and preserving quality. Such services often include options where you can select the compression level, ranging from minimal to maximum. Therefore, you can have a trade-off between file size and quality according to your preferences.
Cutting-edge online PDF compressors employ encryption and secure connections (HTTPS) that guarantee your files are completely protected from prying eyes. So, when searching for a good tool, opt for those supporting such policies and security features.
Absolutely! There are numerous free online PDF compression tools that match this criterion. The most popular option is Adobe Acrobat Online, which provides basic compression at no cost and offers additional features with an upgrade. Smallpdf is available as a free version with basic features and as a premium version with more advanced options. iLovePDF is another tool that is free to use, though it may have limitations such as a daily cap on the number of compressions allowed.
