Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about PDF print cost estimations.
Our tool scans your PDF directly in your browser. Using PDF.js, we render each page onto an off-screen canvas, extract pixel data, and convert RGB colors to CMYK coverage percentages. We then apply standard print yields (which assume 5% coverage per channel) to calculate estimated cartridge consumption and paper cost.
No. The entire scan and analysis process runs 100% locally in your web browser. Your document is processed in-memory and never leaves your device during the estimation. Your privacy is fully preserved.
Printer manufacturers rate cartridge yield at 5% page coverage. This means a 500-page cartridge can print 25 full "100% coverage equivalents". If you print a page with 10% coverage, it consumes twice the standard amount. Our calculator computes this on a page-by-page basis for exact precision.
We offer three modes: Grayscale Mode (converts color images and elements to shades of gray, saving expensive color toner), Draft Mode (reduces print density by washing out content by 25%), and Remove Images (completely strips graphics to leave only text and lines). You can combine these to save up to 80% on print cost.
Guests can perform up to 5 estimates/downloads per day. Free account holders get 10 per day, and Lifetime Pro users get 100 per day. Limits are separate from other PDF tools on the site.