How to Compress PDF on Mac

Electronic transmission is one of the methods used when sending files nowadays. This is the most preferred way due to its convenience and accessibility.

One of the file types widely sent are PDF files. Some contain plain texts while some loaded with images. Plain text documents converted to PDF have a smaller file size compared to those with few images.

When you send files electronically, you have to consider the size of your file. Bigger file size takes too much time when uploaded and downloaded. So, it is best to compress files before sending or sharing them through.

There are a few ways on how to compress PDF files. You can opt to use the free software, with subscriptions or with a license. For MAC users, you can use and choose the methods below.

Compressing PDF files with iMyMac PDF compressor

Perfect to use as the best PDF compressor is the iMyMac PDF compressor (100% free). This tool can compress PDF to smallest file size without losing its good quality. Pictures or images are compressed without being distorted. A user-friendly tool that even non-technical users can navigate the tool.

Follow the steps below and your PDF is ready in no time.

1. Download and install iMyMac from its website – in case you don’t have the application yet.

2. Open the application. At the center of the application, drag and drop the PDF file you want to compress. The app will start compressing the file instantly.

3. When iMyMac has completed the compression, you can use the Preview button to check the result.

4. If you are done the checking, you can now save the file on your desired folder. Easy-peasy!

More reasons to like iMyMac PDF compressor

As you can see, it is very easy to compress PDF files using iMyMac PDF compressor. Steps are pretty basic and as easy as 1-2-3. Here are more things to know why it is best to consider iMyMac than the other PDF compressors.

1. Your privacy is safe as this can be used offline. No need to upload your file online.

2. Fast compression time. It doesn’t matter if your files are large.

3. It can easily detect images within the document and compress with a good speed still.

Compressing PDF files for Free with MAC’s Built-In Applications

MAC OS has built-in applications to view and manage PDF files. These can handle simple and basic PDF needs. You can use these applications without requiring a fee. MAC’s PDF compressors are the 'Preview' and 'ColorSync'. See below on how to use these applications:

• Using Preview

Through Mac’s Quartz Filtering feature, you can reduce the file size of your PDF. Here are the steps on how you can compress PDF files using Preview.

1. Double click the PDF file you want to compress to open in Preview.

2. Once the file is open, click “File” on the top menu. Then, click “Export” in the drop-down menu.

3. A pop-up box will appear, check Format to ensure file type is in PDF. In Quartz Filter, click to see the drop-down list and select “Reduce File Size”.4) Choose the folder where you want to save your reduced PDF and click “Save” to download the file.

• Using ColorSync

This is the other PDF compressor that MAC offers to its users. This is a color management tool you can use to adjust the colors of your images. ColorSync manages images to appear the same on all output displays and when printed. To compress using this tool, you need to:

1. Locate and open ColorSync Utility in the Application folder.

2. Click “File” on the top menu and click “Open” in the drop-down list. Look for the PDF you want to compress and click to open.

3. Once the file is opened, click “File” and select “Save As” in the drop-down menu.

4. You will now see the preview of the document. At the bottom part of the document, check Filter and click on the drop-down list. Select “Reduce File Size” then click “Apply” to save your document.

Compressing PDF files for Free with Online PDF compressor

There are many websites that offer to compress PDF for free. Just do a web search with the use of “compress PDF online” as your keyword. Online PDF compressor asks you to upload your PDF file.

The file size of your original file will affect the duration of the upload time. Remember, the bigger
the file is the longer it gets uploaded. These sites will automatically start compressing the PDF once the file is completely uploaded. All you need to do is wait until it completes the process. When prompted, save and download the file to your desired folder location.

Again, the above methods are free and easy to access. Since they are free, there are pros and cons that come with it. Yes, they are effective to use but expect that the quality is not that good. If the purpose of your document is for internal office use only, then you are good to do. But if you are going to send brochures, magazines or newsletters better opt with the best PDF compressor.

Tips when compressing PDF on Mac

When working on images, make them smaller to get reasonable file size. JPG format images are smaller compared to other file types, best to use them. Check your file and delete blank pages or any unnecessary pages.

Stay away from online PDF compressors unless you have no other option. Online compressors will make a copy of your file to their server. Thus, this affects the privacy of your file. It takes time also to upload and download file, not that helpful when you are in a hurry.

This tool also needs an internet connection which makes it more difficult when you have a bad connection. Lastly, weigh your options before deciding which method to use. Your needs will help you decide.

Built-in applications in MAC are good to use for simple PDF compression. If you are to compress the file for commercial use, then opt into a much good application.