If you’re wondering how to compress PDF files without Adobe, you’ve come to the right place. This is a common question, which we’ve taken an in-depth look at.
We also discussed some other related information which you might find useful.
How Do You Compress a PDF Without Adobe?
There are several other tools that you can use instead of the app. However, depending on whether you’re using a Windows or Mac computer, the software available would differ. We recommend Small PDF on Windows, and PDF Expert on Mac.
In the section below, we’ve taken a look at how to use both of these tools.
Compressing PDF Files on Windows Computers
There are several Adobe alternatives that are available for Windows. Small PDF happens to be a personal favorite. Not only is it easy to use, but it doesn’t take up much space either. Several PDF converting functions are offered as well.
However, there is something you need to know – the tool is not free. You will have to pay around $60 for it. Compared to some of its counterparts, it is not as pricey, though.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Go to the Small PDF website
- Find and click on the Download button
- Wait for the program to install and then launch it
- Click the Choose File button or directly drag your PDF files into the red box on the page
- Choose the level of compressing that you want
- Wait for the software to be done
Compressing PDF Files on Mac Computers
Unlike on Windows, the alternatives available for Macs aren’t as diverse. PDF Expert Happens to be a one of our favorites for Mac systems. One of the best things about it is that it is easy to use, and more importantly, it is free.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Go to the software website
- Click on the Download button on the main page
- Wait for it to install
- Launch it
- Define your PDF file source
- Create an output file directory and then choose an output profile from the settings
- Click on the Compress button to start the compressing procedure
Now all you do is sit back and relax until the tool is done. As you can imagine, your file size will affect how long it will take to install.
What are the Disadvantages of Using Adobe?
Although most people use Adobe to compress their files, it has a couple of issues that might make you want to use one of its competitors.
Some of them include:
1. Constant Crashing
Constant crashing is a major issue that the program struggles with. No matter how many times it updates, it has always had this problem.
2. Bad Multitasking Capabilities
Unfortunately, the app does not let you process multiple PDF files at the same time. If you want to compress more than one file, you will have to do this manually. This isn’t what you want to hear if you’re strapped for time.
3. Connection and Server Issues
Server issues are another major problem Adobe faces. You can only use it when connected to the internet, and sometimes, network issues cause errors to pop up. The only thing you can do is wait them out.
4. Too Expensive
The software is one of the more expensive options on the market. You can instead use one of the cheaper alternatives that are available. If you look around, you’ll see that some PDF compressors are even free (like PDF Expert on our list).
How Do You Compress a PDF Without Adobe?
As discussed, there are several ways to compress PDFs without using Adobe. Depending on whether you’re using a Windows or Mac computer, the types of software you can use would differ. One of the best for Windows computers happens to be Small PDF. We’ve used it a couple of times and it has never disappointed.
When it comes to Mac computers, PDF Expert is one of the best. One of the advantages of it is that it’s free.
Many users look for other ways to use compress files, as Adobe has a major crashing issue. It is quite pricey as well.