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Compress PDF

Linearize PDF

Optimize a PDF for fast web viewing (progressive rendering). Your files never leave your device — all processing happens locally in your browser.

Private by design
Your files never leave your device. All processing happens locally in your browser — no uploads, no servers.

Drop your PDF here

or click to choose a file

Your files never leave your device.

Optimizes a PDF for fast web viewing (progressive rendering). The output streams the first page over HTTP before the whole file downloads.

Linearize PDF rewrites a PDF for fast web viewing with qpdf-wasm. The output is reorganized so a viewer can render the first page before the whole file has downloaded — useful for large documents served over HTTP. The rewrite happens in a Web Worker on your device; the file is never uploaded.

How it works

How to use Linearize PDF

  1. 1
    Drop your PDF. Drag and drop a PDF, or choose one from your device.
  2. 2
    Run Linearize PDF. qpdf rewrites the file with a linearized structure and a cross-reference stream in a Web Worker.
  3. 3
    Download the result. The linearized PDF is offered as a download. Serve it over HTTP with range requests to see the benefit.

Features

What this tool does

  • Reorganizes the PDF for progressive web viewing
  • Rewrites the cross-reference data as a stream
  • Runs locally via qpdf-wasm
  • No upload — the document stays on your device

Limitations

Things to know

  • Does not reduce image quality or guarantee a smaller file — output may be slightly larger
  • Not a substitute for compression when the goal is a smaller download
  • Some viewers ignore linearization hints and still wait for the full file
  • Encrypted PDFs must be unlocked first

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Does linearizing reduce file size?

Not necessarily. Linearization reorganizes the file for progressive rendering; it can make the file slightly larger. Use Compress PDF if size is the priority.

Why does fast web view matter?

A linearized PDF places the first page's data early in the file, so a viewer using HTTP range requests can show page one before the rest arrives. The benefit depends on the server and viewer supporting range requests.

Is my file uploaded?

No. qpdf runs in a Web Worker in your browser; the PDF never leaves your device.

Can I linearize a password-protected PDF?

Not while it is encrypted. Unlock it first, then linearize the decrypted copy.