How to use this PDF tool
- Select the PDF.
- Choose the processing option.
- Click Flatten PDF, review the result, and download it.
#021 · PDF Compression & Optimization Tool
Flatten PDF for Sharing
Turn each PDF page into a clean, fixed visual layer for dependable sharing. The new file removes editable form behavior and preserves the page appearance as an image.
Flatten PDF for Sharing
Local processingAd space
What this tool does
This tool renders every page and builds a new image-based PDF. Form fields, selectable text, links, comments, and other interactive elements are no longer interactive in the result.
PDF page → browser canvas → JPEG image → new fixed-page PDF
Use this when consistent appearance matters more than searchable or editable text.
Supported formats
Accepts standard, unencrypted PDF files. Complex transparency is rendered by PDF.js; password-protected files are not supported.
| Processing | Local browser tab |
|---|---|
| Encryption | Not supported |
| Output | PDF document |
Tips for better results
- Review the output before sending it externally.
- Choose Print only when recipients may print the document.
- Keep the original file because flattening removes editability.
FAQ
How can I flatten a PDF form before emailing it?
Upload the completed PDF and process it. Each page is rendered into a fixed image layer, so form controls are no longer editable.
Will flattening remove comments and clickable links?
Their visible appearance may remain, but comments, links, selections, and other interactive behavior are not retained.
Does a flattened PDF still have searchable text?
No. This browser implementation creates image-based pages, so text is no longer selectable or searchable.
Can I flatten a password-protected PDF?
No. Remove the password with an authorized PDF application first, then use the unlocked copy.
Why is the flattened PDF sometimes larger?
Image-based pages can be larger than PDFs containing efficient text and vector graphics. Choose the screen preset for a smaller sharing copy.
Related PDF tools
Processing notes
| Privacy | No document upload |
|---|---|
| Large files | Limited by browser memory |