Ensure that Use Compression is checked. This applies lossless compression to all native Illustrator elements. đŸ“„ Optimizing PDF Exports for Screen and Print

To achieve a , you must optimize your export settings by unchecking "Create PDF Compatible File" during an .ai save or deselecting "Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities" during a .pdf export. These simple steps instantly remove heavy, redundant background data and significantly shrink your vector files without degrading artwork quality.

If you are exporting your vector artwork into a PDF for clients or printing presses, default settings can create needlessly bulky files.