How to Split PDF by File Size - Complete Guide

What is PDFSplit?

PDFSplit is a free online PDF splitting tool that helps you quickly and securely split PDF files into separate documents. All processing is done locally in your browser, no need to upload files to servers, ensuring your file security and privacy.

Split by File Size

This mode splits the PDF file into multiple files according to the file size limit you specify. Our tool will intelligently determine the best way to split the PDF while maintaining document integrity, ensuring each split file is as close as possible to your desired size without breaking individual pages.

Usage Example: If you have a 30MB PDF file and set a file size limit of 10MB, the system will create 3 PDF files, each around 10MB in size, perfect for meeting email attachment limits or upload restrictions.

Usage Scenario: This is the best option when you need to share large PDF files via email (which often have size limits), upload files to websites with file size restrictions, or optimize files for faster downloading. It automatically determines the optimal split points to maintain content integrity.

Basic Operation Steps

  1. Upload PDF File

    Click on the upload area or drag and drop your PDF file into the upload area. You can also click the "Select File" button to choose a PDF file from your local device.

    Note: PDFSplit supports PDF files up to 50MB.

  2. Select Split Mode

    After uploading the file, you can see a preview of the PDF, then select one of the following split modes:

    • Split by File Size: Split the PDF file into multiple files according to the specified file size limit - perfect for meeting email and upload size restrictions.
    • Split by Page Count: Split the PDF file into multiple files according to the specified number of pages.
    • Split by Page Ranges: Create multiple PDF files based on the page ranges you specify.
    • Extract Specific Pages: Extract specified pages from the PDF file to create a new PDF file containing those pages.
  3. Set Split Parameters

    Based on the split mode you selected, set the corresponding parameters:

    • If you choose "Split by Page Count", enter the number of pages per file.
    • If you choose "Split by Page Ranges", enter page ranges, for example: 1-3,5-10,12.
    • If you choose "Extract Specific Pages", enter the pages to extract, for example: 1,3,5,8.
    • If you choose "Split by File Size", enter the desired file size limit (in MB) to meet email or upload requirements, and our tool will automatically split your PDF into multiple files that meet your size requirements while maintaining page integrity.
  4. Start Splitting

    Click the "Split PDF" button to start the splitting process. Depending on file size and number of pages, splitting may take a few seconds.

  5. Download Result Files

    After splitting is complete, you can see a list of all generated PDF files. Click the "Download" button next to each file to download individual files, or click the "Download All" button to download all files at once.

Detailed Split Modes

Split by Page Count

This mode splits the PDF file into multiple files according to the number of pages you specify. For example, if you have a 10-page PDF file and set 2 pages per file, the system will create 5 PDF files, each containing 2 pages.

Usage Scenario: When you need to evenly split a long PDF file into multiple smaller files.

Split by Page Ranges

This mode allows you to create multiple PDF files based on the page ranges you define. You can enter any number of page ranges, and each range will create a separate PDF file.

Usage Example: If you enter "1-3,5-10,12", the system will create 3 PDF files containing pages 1-3, 5-10, and page 12 respectively.

Usage Scenario: When you need to split a PDF file according to specific logical structures, such as by chapters.

Extract Specific Pages

This mode allows you to extract specified pages from a PDF file to create a new PDF file containing those pages.

Usage Example: If you enter "1,3,5,8", the system will create a new PDF file containing pages 1, 3, 5, and 8.

Usage Scenario: When you only need specific pages from a PDF file.

Advanced Tips

  • Preview Function: After uploading a file, you can preview all pages of the PDF, which helps you determine the page ranges you need to split.
  • Keyboard Shortcuts: You can use Tab and Enter keys to navigate between interface elements, improving operation efficiency.
  • Batch Processing: Although PDFSplit currently doesn't support uploading multiple PDF files at once, you can click the "Re-upload" button after one file is processed to continue processing other files.
  • File Naming: Split files will be automatically named, including the original file name and page range information for easy identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I upload my PDF file?

Possible reasons: file size exceeds 50MB, file format is not PDF, or your browser doesn't support certain necessary functions. Please check file size and format, and ensure you are using a modern browser.

Why does the splitting process take a long time?

Splitting time depends on the size of the PDF file, the number of pages, and your computer's performance. Larger files and more pages may require longer time.

What is the quality of the split PDF files?

Split PDF files retain all quality and formatting of the original file. All elements such as text, images, links, etc., remain unchanged after splitting.

When should I use the "Split by File Size" mode?

This mode is particularly useful when you need to share large PDF files via email (which often have size limits), upload files to websites with size restrictions, or optimize files for faster downloading. It automatically determines the best way to split your document while maintaining content integrity.

How accurate is the "Split by File Size" feature?

The file size splitting is designed to get as close as possible to your specified limit while maintaining page integrity (it won't split individual pages). The actual size of each split file may vary slightly depending on the content density of the pages.