Grayscale PDF — Convert Color PDFs to Black & White

StayPDF's Grayscale tool converts color PDFs into black-and-white documents. Save on color printing, give internal handouts a uniform look, or check how a document will look on a B&W copier — all in your browser.

All processing happens inside your browser. Your files are never uploaded to any server. Convert internal reports and personal records without exposing them. Free, no account, no installation.

What this tool can do

  • Convert color PDFs to grayscale
  • Choose between three resolutions (100/150/200 dpi)
  • Cuts color printing costs and unifies a document set
  • Fully local — files never leave your browser
  • Works the same on desktop and mobile

How to convert to grayscale

  1. Choose a PDF: Drag and drop your PDF, or use the file picker.
  2. Pick a resolution: Higher dpi means better quality but a bigger file. 150 dpi or higher is recommended for printing.
  3. Convert and save: Click "Convert and Save" — every page is rasterized in grayscale into a new PDF.

Frequently asked questions

Can I still search the text afterward?

No. Pages are converted to grayscale images, so text is no longer selectable or searchable. Keep the original file as a backup.

What's the difference between resolutions?

100 dpi is light and small; 150 dpi is the balanced default; 200 dpi is best for print. Use 150-200 dpi for scans.

How does the file size change?

Usually smaller than the color original, though simple text PDFs can grow because they're now stored as images.

Are my files uploaded to a server?

No. Everything runs locally in your browser.

Related tools

  • Compress PDF — Shrink the file size
  • PDF to Image — Export pages as PNG/JPEG
  • Change Page Size — Convert to A4/Letter