Flatten PDF Online Free – Make PDF Read Only

Merge layers, lock forms, and prevent editing.

Select PDF to Flatten

Makes PDF Un-editable (Read Only)

Flatten Settings

Quality / Resolution Standard (150 DPI)
Low (Web) Standard High (Print)

Note: Flattening converts pages to images. Text will no longer be selectable/searchable.

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Flatten PDF Online Free

Flattening a PDF means converting all interactive elements such as form fields, annotations, layers, signatures, and comments into a single static layer. Once flattened, the PDF becomes read-only and cannot be edited easily.

GKPTool’s Flatten PDF tool allows you to lock your document permanently without installing software or uploading files to any server.

Why Flatten a PDF File?

Many PDFs contain editable elements that can be modified unintentionally. Flattening prevents such changes and ensures document integrity.

What Happens After Flattening?

After flattening, all form fields and layers are merged into the background. Text becomes non-editable and the PDF behaves like a scanned document.

This ensures the document appears identical on all devices and software.

How to Flatten PDF Online

  1. Select your PDF file.
  2. Choose quality and resolution.
  3. Click “Flatten PDF Now”.
  4. Wait while pages are processed.
  5. Download your locked PDF.

Flatten PDF Forms

Government forms and online applications often require users to fill details inside editable PDF fields. After submission, these fields should be locked.

Flattening merges the entered values permanently into the document so no one can alter them later.

Merge Layers and Annotations

PDFs may contain multiple layers including drawings, highlights, stamps, and comments. Flattening combines all these layers into a single page image.

Prevent Copying and Editing

Flattening converts pages into image-based content. This makes text selection, copy-paste, and unauthorized editing extremely difficult.

High Quality PDF Flattening

You can choose resolution levels suitable for web use or printing. High DPI settings maintain sharp text and clear images even after flattening.

Client-Side Security Technology

All PDF flattening is done locally inside your browser. Files are never uploaded to external servers.

Your documents remain completely private and secure.

Who Should Use Flatten PDF Tool?

Frequently Asked Questions

What does flatten PDF mean?

Flattening converts editable content into a single uneditable layer.

Is flattened PDF editable?

No. After flattening, the document becomes read-only.

Does flattening reduce quality?

No. You can choose high-quality resolution for printing.

Are my files uploaded?

No. All processing happens locally in your browser.

Is this tool free?

Yes, it is completely free with unlimited usage.