PdfRecast guide
Reduce PDF file size with selectable compression goals
PDF compression is a tradeoff between file size and fidelity. PdfRecast analyzes supported content in the browser and applies a chosen preset so you can create a smaller copy without overwriting the original file.
How to use this workflow
- Choose a PDF and note the original file size.
- Select a preset based on whether screen viewing, balanced quality, or stronger size reduction matters most.
- Compress the file and compare the reported output size with the original.
- Inspect small text, diagrams, photographs, transparency, and scanned signatures before sharing.
Why some PDFs shrink more than others
Scanned and photo-heavy PDFs often offer the largest reductions because images can be resampled or recompressed. A PDF that already contains optimized images and compact fonts may become only slightly smaller.
Strong compression can soften text that is part of an image and can reduce the usefulness of later OCR. Keep an archival original and use the compressed copy for delivery when its reviewed quality is acceptable.