How to compress a scanned PDF
About us
English
How to compress a scanned PDF
Step-by-step guide on how to compress a scanned PDF quickly using Evernote's free online tool
or drag and drop a file
Supports images and PDFs (max 100MB)
By using the product, you agree to our Terms of Service and have read our Privacy Policy.
Trusted by Millions Worldwide
4.4
2,100+ reviews on G2
4.4
8,200+ reviews on Capterra
4.4
73,000+ reviews on App Store
248M
Registered Users
5B
Notes Created
2M
Notes Created Daily
Frequently Asked Questions
Scanned PDFs are often large because each page is stored as an image. Compressing a scanned PDF reduces file size for easier sharing, faster uploads, and less storage use. Evernote’s browser-based tool can help you reduce size quickly while keeping the document usable for review or archiving.
A scanned PDF is a document created by scanning physical pages into image files and embedding them into a PDF container. Unlike text-based PDFs, scanned PDFs are image-heavy, which typically increases file size. They can be compressed to make them more manageable for sharing and storage.
Scanned PDFs grow in size because every page is saved as a high-resolution image. Color scans, high DPI settings, and lack of image compression all increase file size. Multiple pages compound this effect. Compressing reduces image resolution or applies lossy compression to bring the overall file size down while keeping content readable.
Yes, image resolution (measured in DPI) has a direct impact on scanned PDF size. Higher DPI creates larger, more detailed images and larger files. Reducing resolution or using appropriate compression reduces file size. Evernote’s web tool focuses on quick, efficient compression so files remain useful while being smaller.
Yes. Color scans tend to be larger than grayscale because they store more image data per pixel. Converting pages to grayscale before compression can significantly reduce size while preserving readability for many documents. Evernote’s browser tool helps reduce file weight, and choosing grayscale when appropriate can improve results.
Yes. You can compress scanned PDFs directly in your browser without installing desktop software. Evernote provides a free online tool that lets you upload a scanned PDF, run compression, and download the reduced file quickly. This approach is convenient for fast compression on any device with a browser.
Many web tools focus on single-file compression for speed and simplicity. If you have many scanned PDFs, you can compress them one at a time or create a workflow to batch them locally before uploading. For frequent bulk tasks, consider organizing files first, then processing them in manageable groups.
Some compression tools offer adjustable settings like image quality, resolution, and color options. Evernote’s online tool is designed for fast, sensible compression that balances size and readability. If you need granular control over quality, look for options in the compression interface or use a desktop tool for advanced settings.
Yes. Browser-based compression tools typically work on modern mobile browsers, allowing you to compress scanned PDFs from a phone or tablet. The experience may vary by device and browser, but Evernote’s online tool is built to be accessible in-browser, so you can reduce file size without switching to a desktop.
After compressing a scanned PDF in your browser, download the reduced file to your device and then attach or upload it to an Evernote note. This lets you keep a compact copy alongside your notes and other resources. The original file on your device remains unchanged unless you overwrite it.
Most browser compression tools produce a new, compressed file and do not overwrite the original unless you choose to replace it. That means you can keep a high-resolution original for future needs while using the smaller compressed version for sharing and storage. Always verify downloads before deleting originals.
Compression reduces file size by lowering image resolution or applying lossy image compression, which can make text less sharp if overdone. Careful compression keeps documents legible for reading and printing. If clarity is essential, test settings on a sample page and keep a higher-resolution copy for archival purposes.
Some web-based compression tools impose file size limits on uploads to ensure speed and reliability. If your scanned PDF exceeds a tool’s limit, split the document into smaller parts or reduce resolution locally before uploading. Check the tool’s upload guidance to know any specific limits before starting.
Compression reduces file size but won't correct issues like poor original scan quality, skewed pages, or illegible handwriting. It also won't convert image-only text into editable text unless you run OCR afterward. Use compression to manage file size, then apply other tools if you need image cleanup or text extraction.