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asperity's avatar
asperity
Iron Contributor
Jul 24, 2026

Best PDF compressor software for mac for reducing PDF file size?

Hi all, New to here and really need an solution to my problem. Got a bunch of PDF files on Mac that have ballooned to sizes (~200MB) that make them impossible to email or upload anywhere without hi...
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DashielQuinn's avatar
DashielQuinn
Iron Contributor
Jul 24, 2026

If you're looking for open-source software, consider PDFsam Basic. It runs on macOS and is a reliable offline alternative to PDF compressor for mac. The software includes a built-in compression module, allowing you to reduce the size of PDF files without having to upload them to a web server.

How to Use a PDF Compressor for Mac

1. Download and install the software from the official website

2. Launch the software

3. Select the compression module from the feature list

4. Import the PDF files you want to compress

5. Select an appropriate compression profile, such as High Quality or Normal

6. Set the save location for the output files

7. Click “Run” to start the compression task

Disadvantages

  • Fewer advanced adjustable parameters than professional software
  • No visual preview to check compression results before exporting
  • Lower precision in adjusting image resolution compared to high-end alternatives

As an open-source desktop application, this PDF compression tool offers fully localized compression capabilities. You can quickly balance file size and visual quality using preset profiles. However, compared to other tools, it offers fewer fine-tuning options.

ps

  • Be sure to back up the original PDF file before compressing it.
  • Try different profiles to find the best balance between file size and clarity.
  • Be sure to download the installer from the official source to avoid obtaining a tampered or unsafe version.