Merge PDFs and compress
Merge PDFs (photos can be mixed in) in the order you add them, then shrink the result to an email- or portal-friendly size, all in one go.
This recipe: Combine into one PDF → Compress · See other recipes or build your own
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When to use it
Job applications, proof documents and contracts often have to be sent as one file under a size limit such as "10 MB max". Normally you merge in one tool, download, then upload again to a compressor. This recipe chains both steps on one screen. Phone photos of receipts or IDs are placed on A4 pages and merged with the rest.
How the compression works
The compress step uses the same engine as our Compress PDF tool. "Normal" keeps text untouched and re-saves images at about 150 dpi, so text stays selectable and searchable while scan-heavy PDFs shrink a lot. Text-only PDFs shrink less, and if there is nothing left to shrink the file is kept as is. "Strong" turns pages into images for the smallest size, but text can no longer be selected or searched.
How to use
- Check the steps and settings above. Add steps or change their order if needed.
- Drop or choose your PDF and photo files. You can reorder them in the file list.
- Press "Run all steps". Each step runs in turn and shows its result.
- Preview and download the finished PDF. Save combinations you use often with "Save as my recipe".
Good to know
- Everything runs in your browser's memory. Very many or very large files can be slow, so split them if needed.
- Password-protected PDFs must be unlocked first with the PDF password remover.
- iPhone HEIC photos and HWP files can't be added directly. Convert them to JPG or PDF first.
Frequently asked questions
How is the merge order decided?
Files are merged in the order you add them. Use the ↑ button in the file list to reorder, or ✕ to remove a file.
How much smaller will it get?
PDFs with many scans or photos shrink a lot; text-heavy PDFs shrink a little. If nothing can be reduced, the original size is kept and you are told so.
Can I still select text in the merged PDF?
Yes. The default "Normal" level leaves text alone. Only "Strong" turns pages into images and makes text unselectable.
Can I merge password-protected PDFs?
No. Unlock the file first with the PDF password remover using its open password, then add it again.