Convert color PDF to black and white
Last updated: 2026-10-08
Convert PDF to Grayscale is a free online tool that converts a color PDF to black-and-white, typically reducing file size by 20 to 30 percent as color data is stripped from embedded images. It's commonly used to prepare documents for black-and-white printing, reduce file size for email, or standardize the appearance of scanned color documents. The conversion happens entirely in the browser, so the file is never uploaded to a server. Grayscale conversion is permanent within the generated output file — users should keep their original colored PDF as a backup, since reversing the conversion isn't possible within the tool. There is no file-size limit and no page-count cap. The tool requires no account or installation, and works the same way on desktop and mobile browsers, producing a downloadable grayscale PDF within seconds of upload, with no quality loss to text or line art during the color-to-grayscale process.
Typically 20–30% reduction as color data is removed from images.
No. Grayscale conversion is permanent. Keep your original colored file as backup.
Yes, all 32 tools are 100% free forever. No hidden charges, no premium version, no login required.
No. We have zero file size restrictions. Process any PDF of any size, as many times as you want.