DropMyPageIf a PDF is too large to send, you have two good options: make the file smaller, or send a link to it instead of the file. A link has no size problem for the person receiving it, and it opens in their browser.
Here are five ways to fix it, starting with the quickest.
First, how big is too big?
Limits depend on where you send the file. At the time of writing, Gmail's help page says personal Gmail accounts have a 25 MB attachment limit, and that for larger attachments Gmail removes the file and adds it as a Google Drive link. For work or school accounts, the administrator sets the limit. Other mail services and chat apps have their own limits, so check the service you use.
Even under the limit, a heavy PDF is slow to download on a phone and can fill up storage. Making it smaller or sending a link is kinder to the person on the other end.
1. Share it as a link (no shrinking needed)
This is often the fastest fix, because you do not change the file at all.
- Open DropMyPage and choose Upload file, then pick your PDF.
- Tap Create link.
- Paste the link into your email or message.
On the free plan, PDFs up to 5 MB are accepted, links last 7 days, and no account is needed. For files up to 25 MB and links that never expire, there is the Pro plan (Monthly $9.99, Yearly $47.99, or Lifetime $59). Features and prices can change, so check the pricing section.
If your PDF is bigger than your plan allows, use one of the shrinking methods below first.
2. Compress the images
Most large PDFs are large because of photos and scans, not text. Reducing the image quality is the biggest saving.
- Many PDF editors and document apps have an export as smaller file or reduce file size option.
- If the PDF came from a presentation or document, export it again with a lower image quality setting.
- Scanned pages are often huge. Scan at a lower resolution, such as 150 to 200 dpi for reading on screen.
Check the result on a phone. If the text is still sharp and the images are acceptable, you are done.
3. Remove what you do not need
- Delete blank or duplicate pages.
- Remove large embedded files, such as videos or unused attachments.
- Take out unused fonts or high-resolution logos if your editor allows it.
4. Split it into parts
If the document has clear sections, split it into two or three smaller PDFs. This works well for long reports and scanned books. Name the files clearly, such as "Report Part 1" and "Report Part 2", so the person knows the order.
5. Use a file-sharing service you already have
You can upload the file to a cloud storage service and share a link to it. Make sure the link opens for people who are not signed in to your account, and test it in a private browser window. Check each service's own help page for its current limits and sharing settings.
Which option should you choose?
| Situation | Best choice |
|---|---|
| The recipient just needs to read it | Share it as a link |
| The recipient needs a copy to edit or print | Compress it and send the file |
| It is a long document with sections | Split it, or share as a link |
| It is private | Use a protected link or send it through a secure channel |
Make the link last
If you send the link today and the person opens it tomorrow, a free link is fine. If you will use the link on a website, a poster or a long email thread, use a permanent link. With Pro you can also replace the PDF and keep the same link and QR code, so people always see the latest version.
For tips on how to turn a PDF into a shareable link, see PDF to link. If you want to send it on a chat app, read how to share a PDF on WhatsApp as a link or on Telegram.
Privacy
Anyone who has the link can open the PDF. Do not share private documents this way. The Pro plan lets you add a password to a page.
Common mistakes
- Compressing too hard. If the text becomes blurry, increase the quality a little.
- Sending a link that has expired. Free links last 7 days.
- Sharing a cloud link that asks the person to request access. Test it in a private window.
- Forgetting to check on a phone. A PDF can be readable on a computer but tiny on a phone.
FAQ
What is the Gmail attachment limit?
At the time of writing, Gmail's help page says 25 MB for personal accounts. Work and school accounts are set by the administrator.
Does making a PDF smaller lower its quality?
Usually, a little. Images lose some detail, but text stays sharp. Check the result before you send it.
Can I send a large PDF without compressing it?
Yes, as a link. The recipient opens it in the browser instead of downloading it.
Is sharing a PDF link free?
Yes, for a link that lasts 7 days and files up to 5 MB. Permanent links and 25 MB files are on the Pro plan.