How to compress a PDF for email or upload
Drop the PDF on Fileshaper, choose Compress, and pick Light (keeps text selectable) or Strong (best for scans and photo-heavy files). The smaller copy is saved next to the original, without uploading anything.
Updated 11 November 2026 · Hollowbit
Do it right here
Step by step
- Download FileshaperInstall the free app for Windows or Mac.
- Open PDF, then CompressDrop one or more PDFs on the window.
- Choose Light or StrongLight cleans up the file and keeps everything selectable. Strong turns each page into a compressed image, which shrinks scans a lot.
- Click CompressFileshaper only saves a copy if it's actually smaller.
Which setting to use
If the PDF came from a scanner or a phone camera, use Strong: those files are big because each page is already a photo. If it's a document exported from Word or Google Docs, try Light first so the text stays selectable.
Common size limits
Many email services cap attachments at around 20 to 25 MB, and many school and job portals accept only a few megabytes per file. Check the limit where you're uploading.
Questions
Will the text still be searchable?
With Light, yes. With Strong, pages become images, so the text can't be selected afterwards.
Can I compress several PDFs at once?
Yes. Drop them all in and compress them in one go.
Is my document uploaded?
No. Fileshaper works offline.
More guides
- How to compress a video for DiscordShrink any video to fit Discord's 10 MB upload limit without Nitro and without uploading it to a website. Free, offline, works on Windows and Mac.
- How to open HEIC photos on Windows (and convert them to JPG)iPhone photos are saved as HEIC, which many Windows apps can't open. Convert HEIC to JPG in bulk, free and offline, without uploading your photos.
- How to sign a PDF without uploading itAdd a drawn or typed signature and the date to any PDF without sending your contract to a website. Free and offline on Windows and Mac.