How to Compress a PDF on Mac (and Keep It Readable)

By NUR Technologies · October 28, 2026 · 4 min read

A PDF that is too big will not attach to an email or upload to a form. You can shrink it on a Mac without sending it to a website. The trick is picking a method that does not wreck the quality.

Option 1: Preview (free, built in)

1. Open the PDF in PreviewDouble-click the file.
2. Export with a filterChoose File > Export… (not Export as PDF), then open the Quartz Filter menu.
3. Pick Reduce File SizeSelect it, give the file a new name and save.

It is quick, but the filter is a single setting and can make images and photos look noticeably softer. Always check the result, and keep your original.

Option 2: Rivet, with the size shown first

Rivet compresses with three strengths and estimates the final size before you save, so you can pick the lightest setting that is small enough. It keeps the text selectable, and it never gives you back something bigger than the original.

1. Open CompressDrop the PDF on Rivet and choose Compress.
2. Choose a strengthTry each of the three and read the estimated size.
3. SavePress the main button to save the smaller copy.

When compressing will not help

Compression works best on scans, photos and slide decks. A light, text-only PDF is already small, and Rivet keeps the original if it cannot make it smaller.