Inspiring

Question

Excessive Illustrator file size

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I recently updated to latest Illustrator version, and for some unknown reason files are now saved with a way too much size.

For example - a blank file, brand new, is more than 1.5 MB and a file with 4 very simple vector elements is more than 12MB.

I’m always saving without “Create PDF Compatible File” and even tried without the “Embed ICC Profile” but the file size remains very high.

C

cksteiner

Participating Frequently

OMG I am working through the EXACT same thing right now. BLOATED AI files! I have a tiny (0.5” x 0.75”) vector icon - very simple. One solid fill color - CMYK - no gradients. No raster files. And it is over 1.3 MB. There’s no reason for that! I was running tests too… I unchecked make PDF compatible AND THE FILE GOT LARGER. I too, created a new BLANK document, same size but didn't add any art. Blank artboard was over 1 MB. WHAT IS GOING ON??

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Ton Frederiks

Community Expert

@cksteiner Which Illustrator version and Mac or Win?

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C

cksteiner

Participating Frequently

Windows 11, Version 25H2 (OS Bild 26200.9457)
Illustrator 2026 v 30.8.1

I see I have an update available, so I’ll see if upgrading to 30.8.2 fixes.

I have been using Illustrator for 25+ years, and I‘ve never had so many dumb software problems until the last 2 years.

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Ton Frederiks

Community Expert

@ori manor That is strange indeed. You can always try to reset Preferences if strange things are happening.

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ori manorAuthor

Inspiring

Thank you very much for your help 🙏

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Ton Frederiks

Community Expert

Thanks, I hope that worked.

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Ton Frederiks

Community Expert

@ori manor There is an option in the save dialog that increases the file size, it will include a version of the file as PDF: “Create PDF Compatible File” Unchecking it reduces the filesize, but also reduces the option to use it in Photoshop , Acrobat or InDesign.

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ori manorAuthor

Inspiring

Thanks. I’m always saving without “Create PDF Compatible File” and even tried without the “Embed ICC Profile” but the file size remains very high.

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Ton Frederiks

Community Expert

Just tested a new empty file; 169 KB with and 163 KB without ICC profile and PDF.

If I turn off Use Compresiion it becomes 698 KB.

Where do you base your new files on and where do you save them? Are you on Mac, Win?

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