How to reduce the file size of a PDF document on your Mac computer
- You can reduce PDF size on a Mac with the Preview app or a third-party compressor.
- Reducing PDF file size on your Mac computer can help save storage space.
- Third-party options may cost money, while the Preview app is available for free built into your Mac.
When it comes to saving space on your Mac computer, there are many things you can do — empty the trash, delete app installers, get rid of duplicate files, and more.
Another option is reducing the file size of PDF documents in order to make them more compact. This takes up less space on your Mac.
Before you start, it’s important to note that doing so may also decrease the quality of the original PDF.
If you need a high-quality PDF for a presentation or work assignment, you may be better off using another space-saving method, like saving it to a cloud-based backup system or an external hard drive.
But if you decide it’s the right way to go, here’s what you’ll need to do in order to reduce the file size of a PDF on your Mac.
How to reduce PDF file size on a Mac computer with Preview
1. Open the PDF — if Preview isn’t your default app, right click the PDF, then select Open with followed by Preview.
Choose the Preview app.
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2. Once the file is open, go up to the top toolbar.
3. Select File and then Export.
Choose Export.
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4. You’ll see a pop-up window appear over the top-middle section of the PDF — click the drop-down menu next to Quartz Filter and select Reduce File Size.
Choose Reduce File Size.
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5. Click Save.
Quick tip: You can check the file size of your new PDF by right-clicking the file and choosing Get Info.
How to reduce PDF file size on a Mac computer using compression software
If you decide that you don’t want to use Preview, you can also use third-party compression software to reduce your PDF’s file size.
However, these may require you to pay to download them — though some are available for free. The methods will also depend on the software you go with.
Here are a few third-party file compression options to consider:
Devon Delfino is a Brooklyn-based freelance journalist specializing in personal finance, culture, politics, and identity. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Los Angeles Times, Teen Vogue, Business Insider, and CNBC. Follow her on Twitter at
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