Scans and image PDFs

Compress Scanned PDF

Scanned PDFs are usually much larger than text PDFs because each page is an image. That means compression can help a lot, but too much compression can blur small text.

While using the browser tool, your PDF is processed locally in your browser. Use the preview to check whether the scan remains clear enough for upload.

Upload-ready workflow

Choose a target size like 200KB, 500KB, or 1MB.

Preview readability before downloading the result.

Use a browser-first compression flow for everyday upload problems.

Best approach for scanned PDFs

Try Grayscale Scan for black-and-white forms or printed paperwork.

Use Best Readability for IDs, certificates, and pages with small text.

Avoid scanning at very high resolution if the portal only needs a readable copy.

If the PDF has many pages, remove pages that the portal does not ask for.

Try it with your PDF

Upload your scanned PDF below and choose a target that balances size with readable text.

Compress Your PDF

Upload a PDF, pick your target size, and compress — all in your browser.

Upload PDF

Drag and drop or click to browse

Drop your PDF here

or click to browse

PDF only. Your file is processed in your browser.

Preview & Results

PDF preview will appear here

Upload a PDF to see a preview of the first page

Frequently asked questions

Why are scanned PDFs so large?

Each scanned page is stored like an image. Higher resolution, color scans, and many pages all increase file size.

Is grayscale safe for scanned documents?

It is often useful for black-and-white documents. For colored IDs, stamps, or certificates, check that important details remain visible.

Can scanned PDFs keep selectable text?

Many scans do not have selectable text to begin with. If your PDF has OCR text, aggressive compression may not preserve it.

Related PDF guides

Compress PDF for Visa Uploads

Compress visa PDFs for upload portals while checking readability for passports, forms, bank statements, and supporting documents.

Compress PDF to 1MB

Make a PDF smaller for a 1MB upload limit with practical compression modes, preview, and upload-readiness scoring.

Reduce PDF Size for Upload

Reduce PDF size for online upload forms, job portals, visa systems, and university applications with preview-based compression.

PDF Too Large for Upload?

Learn what to do when a PDF is too large for an upload portal and compress it toward the required limit.