How to reduce a PDF's file size on iPhone
PDF Reader Pro includes PDF compression. The amount saved depends on the source, and reducing image quality too far can make a smaller file unsuitable for reading or printing.
App used in this guide: PDF Reader Pro ↗
Before you begin
Keep the original and note the destination's upload limit. A PDF made mostly of scanned photos may behave differently from a compact document containing mostly text.
Step by step
- Open Tools and choose Compress PDF.
- Select the document and start compression.
- Save the compressed result as a separate file.
- Compare its file size and inspect small text, signatures and images.
Check the result
Test the compressed file in the actual upload flow before deleting any source. Check several pages, including the densest or faintest scan, rather than only the first page.
Limits and troubleshooting
Some PDFs are already optimized and may shrink very little. If the result is unreadable, retain the original quality and split the document if the recipient permits it. Do not trade away important details simply to meet a size target.
SpaceNode Free Tools
- 📑 Merge PDFCombine multiple PDF files into one PDF in the order you want. Free, no sign-up, no watermark — files never leave your device.
- ✂️ Split PDFExtract pages from a PDF or split it into several files by page range or one page per file. Free, with page previews — files never leave your device.
- 🗂️ PDF to JPG ConverterConvert every page of a PDF to a JPG or PNG image in your browser. Choose the DPI, save single pages or download all as a ZIP. No upload.
Sources and further reading
Source language may differ
Publisher disclosure: SpaceNode develops the app described here. Screens and options can vary by version, device and region. Manufacturer names identify compatibility and do not imply endorsement.