About 5MB.me
5MB.me is a focused utility for making PDFs and images fit real-world file-size limits without handing the file to an upload server.
Why it exists
Applications, insurers, schools, employers, government portals, and document systems all impose different file limits. The usual solution is to upload a sensitive file to an unknown compressor. 5MB.me takes a different approach: bring the compression code to the file instead of sending the file to the code.
How it works
The browser reads the selected file with local web APIs. Image codecs and PDF rendering tools run on your device, test compression settings, and create a new downloadable file. The original remains untouched. The installed PWA caches the application tools so supported compression can continue offline.
What the project values
- Privacy: File contents should not leave the device merely to become smaller.
- Honesty: A target is not always achievable, and aggressive compression has visible and structural tradeoffs.
- Clarity: Users should understand what changes, what remains local, and what to verify afterward.
- Focus: No account, project dashboard, cloud library, or unnecessary workflow stands between a file and a smaller copy.
Limits
Browser compression depends on device memory, CPU performance, browser capabilities, file structure, and target size. Some PDFs are already optimized, some features can be lost when pages are rasterized, and not every target can be reached responsibly. The result must always be reviewed before use.
Contact
Questions, corrections, accessibility feedback, and product suggestions may be sent to hello [at] 5mb.me. Privacy and legal requests should be sent to legal [at] 5mb.me.