11 Best Compress PDF Tools (2024) [FREE]

1. Introduction

In our increasingly digitized world, PDF files have become a staple for sharing and storing documents. They are universally compatible with virtually all types of computers and applications. One issue often encountered with PDF files is their size. Large PDFs can be cumbersome to share, download, handle or even store. This is where the critical role of a Compress PDF tool comes in.

1.1 Importance of Compress PDF tool

A Compress PDF tool can drastically reduce the size of your PDFs, making them easier to share via email, load on a webpage, save on a flash drive, or store on a hard drive. These tools use various compression techniques to reduce the file size while maintaining the best possible quality of the original document. Using a Compress PDF tool is not merely a convenience; it’s a necessity in many professional and personal settings. It is essential for those dealing with large PDFs regularly, from graphics designers, architects to academics and students.

1.2 Repair PDF Files

You also need a good tool to repair PDF files in case they are corrupt. DataNumen PDF Repair is the best choice for this task:

1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

The aim of this comparison is to provide you with a comprehensive insight into various Compress PDF tools available in the market. In this report, we will outline the pros and cons of each tool, helping you make an informed decision. You will gain a better understanding of the functionalities, efficiencies, and limitations of different tools. The ultimate goal is to aid you in selecting the most appropriate Compress PDF tool that suits your specific needs.

2. Adobe Acrobat Compress PDF

Adobe Acrobat is a widely recognized name when it comes to handling PDFs. Their Compress PDF tool is a feature-rich application that provides the user with a seamless experience of PDF compression. Known for its excellent quality output and smooth interface, it’s widely used by professionals.

Adobe Acrobat allows users to reduce their PDF file size without substantially compromising the quality. It’s a premium tool that goes beyond mere compression, offering a plethora of other features like editing, converting, combining PDFs, and more. Although it’s a paid tool, it’s vast contribution to PDF handling makes it a preferred choice for many.

2.1 Pros

• High-quality compression: The tool assures great quality post-compression which retains the majority of the original file quality.
• Additional features: Ability to edit, convert, and combine PDFs, making it a comprehensive solution for PDF handling.
• User-friendly Interface: Possesses an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface that enhances user experience.

2.2 Cons

• Premium product: Unlike many other tools, Adobe Acrobat is not free. The cost may be a barrier to some users.
• Overwhelming features: For users who want to perform basic compression, the extra features might be overwhelming and unnecessary.

3. iLovePDF Compress PDF

iLovePDF Compress PDF is a well-known tool that offers easy and efficient PDF compression. Its popularity stems from its user-friendly interface and functionality.

iLovePDF’s Compress PDF tool offers a simple yet effective solution for reducing your PDF size. The online version is free and known for its simplicity and accessibility. With it, you can compress your PDFs in just a few clicks, making it ideal for those who need a quick and straightforward compression solution.

3.1 Pros

• Easy to use: The iLovePDF Compress PDF interface is well designed and self-explanatory, making it easy for anyone to use.
• Free version available: A free version of the tool can be used online, making it accessible to users who cannot or do not want to pay.
• Cloud support: It supports cloud storage services such as Google Drive and Dropbox, which is incredibly beneficial for those who need to compress files stored in the cloud.

3.2 Cons

• Limited compression level: Users don’t have extensive options when it comes to choosing the compression level.
• Restrictions for free users: The free version imposes some limitations, including only a certain number of task executions per hour.
• Ads: The online tool shows ads, which may be disruptive to some users experience.

4. Smallpdf Compress PDF

Smallpdf Compress PDF has solidified its place as one of the trusted online compress PDF tools, offering a blend of effectiveness, simplicity, and accessibility.

Combining simplicity with functionality, Smallpdf’s Compress PDF tool offers an easy-to-navigate user interface, which allows compression of your PDF files in a few clicks. With both a free version and a more feature-rich pro version, it caters to a wide variety of users.

4.1 Pros

• Simplicity: Emphasizing a clean, minimalistic design and a user-friendly interface, it’s straightforward for anyone to use.
• Security: Smallpdf takes user security seriously, deleting uploaded files from their servers after an hour.
• Cloud compatibility: For those who work extensively with cloud-based files, Smallpdf provides compatibility with both Google Drive and Dropbox.

4.2 Cons

• Limited free version: The free version of Smallpdf Compress PDF imposes limitations on the number of tasks you can perform each day.
• Less control over compression: Unlike some other tools, it lacks a sliding scale or specific settings to adjust the degree of compression.
• File size limit: Smallpdf restricts the size of PDFs that can be compressed in the free version.

5. Free PDF Compressor

Free PDF Compressor is a basic and efficient tool, meant for users who value simplicity and zero-cost solutions for their PDF compression needs.

The name says it all. Free PDF Compressor is a low-frills tool designed to provide a no-cost solution for PDF compression. It’s a downloadable software, making it an attractive option for those who are not comfortable using online tools but still need to regularly compress PDFs.

5.1 Pros

• No cost: As the name suggests, Free PDF Compressor is entirely free, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of budget constraints.
• Offline use: Unlike many PDF compression tools, it is a downloadable software. This allows you to compress PDFs even when you’re offline, ensuring privacy and security.
• Simple operation: The user interface is straightforward with no confusing or unnecessary functions, perfect for users who only require basic compression features.

5.2 Cons

• Basic interface: The user interface might feel dated compared to more modern online tools.
• No additional features: Free PDF Compressor is a dedicated compress tool, offering no additional functionalities, like editing or converting PDFs.
• Limited functionality: There’s no option to adjust compression settings, and users might find the functionality too basic for their requirements.

6. Foxit PDF Compressor

Renown for its enterprise level solutions, Foxit PDF Compressor extends their reputation for quality and reliability into the PDF compression arena.

The Foxit PDF Compressor is designed for businesses and professionals who need a powerful, reliable, and scalable solution to their PDF compression needs. It offers excellent control over the compression process, allowing for custom adjustability that caters to the user’s specifications.

6.1 Pros

• Detailed customization: With Foxit PDF Compressor, users can control the desired quality and compression ratio, allowing for tailored optimization.
• Batch processing: It provides the option for batch compression, which is convenient for users dealing with large volumes of PDF files at a time.
• Enterprise-grade tool: Foxit represents a reliable name with a reputation for providing robust and high-quality tools that cater to professional needs.

6.2 Cons

• High cost: As an enterprise-level tool, Foxit PDF Compressor comes with a more substantial price tag compared to other tools.
• Not user-friendly for beginners: With extensive features and detailed customization, it could be intimidating or confusing for users looking for a quick and easy compression solution.
• No free version: There is no free version or trial available, thus potential users cannot test out the tool before deciding to purchase.

7. Sejda Compress PDF

Sejda Compress PDF is a robust tool that caters to a spectrum of PDF manipulation needs, offering more than just compression.

Sejda is a versatile tool with a variety of features like converting, editing, merging, splitting, and compressing PDF files. It offers users more controls compared to many of its counterparts, allowing them to balance compression with output quality. Its user-friendly interface suits even beginners, making the compression process straightforward.

7.1 Pros

• Quality options: Users get to choose the output quality, presenting a balance between file size and quality.
• No software download needed: Sejda operates online, offering users the convenience of not needing to download and install any software.
• Variety of tools: Sejda provides a host of tools for handling PDFs beyond simple compression.

7.2 Cons

• Limitations on usage: The free version of Sejda has restrictions on usage, limiting the number of tasks users can perform in a day.
• File size limit: There are restrictions on the file size you can upload in the free version.
• Paid version required for heavy use: For users who need to perform tasks frequently or deal with large-sized files, the paid version becomes a necessity.

8. PDF24 Tools Compress PDF

PDF24 Tools Compress PDF is a versatile tool that provides many utilities for handling PDFs beyond just compression.

PDF24 Tools offers a range of tools for managing PDF files, including a Compress PDF utility. It caters to a variety of user needs and provides a clean, easy-to-use interface. The compression tool allows users to decrease the size of their PDF documents while maintaining a level of quality that suits their needs.

8.1 Pros

• Flexibility in quality: PDF24 Tools provides options to control the output quality allowing users to balance between quality and size as needed.
• No account necessary: The tool can be used without creating an account or downloading any software, making it quick and hassle-free.
• Multiple PDF tools: PDF24 offers a suite of tools that go beyond compression, including features for editing and converting PDFs.

8.2 Cons

• Pop-up ads: While using the tool, users may encounter ads or pop-ups, which might detract from a smooth experience.
• Variable compression speed: Depending on the file size and your internet connection, compression times might be longer than expected.
• No dedicated offline application: Unlike some tools, PDF24 doesn’t offer a standalone desktop app for offline compression.

9. NXPowerLite Desktop

NXPowerLite Desktop is well-regarded for its powerful file compression capabilities, efficient performance, and versatility.

NXPowerLite Desktop is not a one-trick pony, it compresses not just PDFs but also Microsoft Office files, JPEGs, and TIFF files. Available as a downloadable desktop application, it provides extensive control over the compression parameters and can be integrated with your Email to compress attachments automatically.

9.1 Pros

• Versatile functionality: Alongside PDF compression, it also compresses other file formats like JPEGs, PowerPoint files, Word documents, and Excel files.
• Email integration: NXPowerLite integrates with your Email to automatically compresses attachments, simplifying the process of sharing large files.
• Batch compression: It’s an excellent tool for users who need to compress multiple files or folders at once.

9.2 Cons

• No free version: NXPowerLite only offers a free trial. Post-trial period, you must purchase a license to continue using the software.
• No online platform: The tool doesn’t provide an online version, which could be a hindrance to those needing to compress files anywhere without access to the installed application.
• User interface: The interface, while functional, lacks a modern aesthetic and could be improved.

10. PDF2GO Compress PDF

PDF2GO Compress PDF brings a plethora of tools to the table, offering an all-encompassing solution for your document needs.

PDF2GO’s Compress PDF is a versatile online tool that provides for various PDF functions aside from compression. It stands out with its rich features allowing the user to convert, edit, merge, split, and even repair PDF files. The tool offers compression in simplicity, requiring just a few clicks to reduce your PDF file size.

10.1 Pros

• No software installation: Everything can be performed online without any need for downloaded software, making it convenient and accessible from anywhere.
• Additional tools: It provides a collection of features beyond compression, including splitting, merging, converting, and repairing PDFs.
• Free to use: The tool is free of charge, making it a perfect choice for users working within a budget.

10.2 Cons

• Varied compression results: Like other tools, the compression ratio may fluctuate depending on the nature of the document.
• No dedicated security measures: Though they don’t store your files permanently, there’s no explicit statement about end-to-end encryption during transmission.
• Ads: The interface runs advertisements which can sometimes interrupt the workflow.

11. 11zon Compress PDF

For those looking for a quick and easy solution, 11zon Compress PDF comes in handy for reducing your PDF size.

11zon Compress PDF is an online tool that readily reduces the size of your PDF files with a couple of clicks. It accommodates large PDF files, and the compression process is swift and straightforward, making it an excellent tool for individuals with basic PDF compression needs.

11.1 Pros

• Zero cost: 11zon Compress PDF is entirely free of charge, providing an economical solution to PDF compression.
• Quick process: This tool prioritizes speed in its service, ensuring your compressed PDFs are ready in no time.
• No account needed: User’s can utilize the tool without creating an account, adding to its convenience factor.

11.2 Cons

• Limited toolset: Beyond compression, there are no additional features for handling PDF files.
• Compression Ratio: The compression ratio might not be as significant as some other tools on large PDF files.
• No dedicated security measures: While there’s no indication that they store files long-term, there’s no explicit mention of the encryption quality during transmission.

12. Xodo Compress PDF

Xodo is known for providing PDF solutions across various platforms. Along with this, it also supplies a capable Compress PDF tool to reduce your PDF file sizes.

Xodo’s Compress PDF tool is a part of its comprehensive suite of PDF tools, presenting a one-stop solution for various PDF needs. With easy access on desktops, mobile devices, and web browsers, it offers cross-platform compression services. Users can conveniently compress their PDFs simply and effectively.

12.1 Pros

• Cross-platform access: Xodo is accessible on various platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, and web browsers.
• PDF Suite: Beyond compression, Xodo offers a suite of other tools enabling functionalities like annotation, signing, form filling, and synchronization with Google Drive and Dropbox.
• Free to use: Xodo Compress PDF is entirely free, making it a cost-efficient solution for users.

12.2 Cons

• Subpar compression ratio: Compared to some other tools, compression ratio may not be as high.
• Online only: Xodo requires an internet connection, delimiting its accessibility in offline scenarios.
• Lack of advanced customization: Unlike some competitors, Xodo does not offer advanced customization options for compression.

13. Summary

In our comprehensive analysis of various Compress PDF tools available in the market, here is a high-level comparison of all tools explored in this report as well as our recommended tool based on different scenarios.

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
Adobe Acrobat Compress PDF	High-Quality Compression, Editing, Converting PDFs	User-friendly Interface	Premium Product	24/7 Support
iLovePDF Compress PDF	Basic Compression, Cloud Support	Self-explanatory & Easy Interface	Free with limitations	Email Support
Smallpdf Compress PDF	Basic Compression, Cloud Compatibility	Easy-to-Use	Free with limitations	Online FAQs and Email Support
Free PDF Compressor	Offline Compression	Simple Operation	Completely Free	Limited, through website contact form
Foxit PDF Compressor	Customizable Compression, Batch Processing	Has a learning curve	Enterprise Pricing	Through Foxit Support Center
Sejda Compress PDF	Customizable Quality, Multiple PDF Tools	User-Friendly	Free with limitations	FAQs and Support Email
PDF24 Tools Compress PDF	Customizable Quality, Multiple PDF Tools	User-Friendly	Free	Support Only for PDF24 Creator
NXPowerLite Desktop	Compress Multiple formats, Email Integration	User-Friendly	Paid	FAQs and Support Email
PDF2GO Compress PDF	Quality Customization, Multiple PDF tools	User-Friendly	Free with advertisements	FAQs and Support Email
11zon Compress PDF	Basic Compression	Easy-to-use	Free	Through 11zon Website
Xodo Compress PDF	Basic Compression, Annotations, Form Filling	User-Friendly	Free	FAQs on Website

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

If you are seeking an enterprise-grade tool with a comprehensive feature set, consider Adobe Acrobat Compress PDF or Foxit PDF Compressor. For those on a budget, the free versions of iLovePDF or Smallpdf Compress PDF may be adequate. PDF24 Tools and Sejda Compress PDF would be ideal if you are looking for a tool with a broader scope of PDF handling functions. To compress files offline while maintaining privacy, Free PDF Compressor would be your go-to. If you desire a cross-platform tool, Xodo Compress PDF is worth exploring.

14. Conclusion

In conclusion, the need for compressing PDF files is apparent and widespread. Different tools offer different attractions. Therefore, the choice of tool depends heavily on what you specifically require. Do you need a tool with a plethora of extra features? Do you prefer online or offline tools? Are you willing to pay for a premium tool or you’re searching for a free solution? These are the questions you need to answer when choosing the best tool for your specific need.

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing a Compress PDF Tool

A great Compress PDF tool is a blend of quality, speed, security, ease of use, and affordability. From our analysis, we conclude that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all tool. The best approach is to define your requirements clearly and choose a tool that satisfies those requirements comprehensively. Judge each tool based on how well they align with your needs, and make an informed decision accordingly.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including a powerful convert OST to PST tool.