PDF OCR

Make a scanned PDF searchable with OCR text.

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How to use PDF OCR

Three quick steps — no sign-up needed

  1. Step 1

    Upload an image

    Drag and drop a picture or scan into PDF OCR, or click to browse.

  2. Step 2

    Extract the text

    Text is recognised automatically, including from photos and screenshots.

  3. Step 3

    Copy the text

    Copy the extracted text to your clipboard, ready to edit anywhere.

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About PDF OCR

PDF OCR is a free online tool that lets you make a scanned pdf searchable with ocr text — straight from your browser, with no software to install, no sign-up, and no watermarks. It runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS, so you can use it on whatever device you happen to have to hand.

PDF OCR reads the text inside photos, scans, and screenshots so you can copy and edit it instead of retyping. It's a fast way to digitise printed pages, receipts, notes, and slides. Files and data are processed securely and removed automatically afterwards, and many steps run entirely on your own device for extra privacy. Because PDF OCR is completely free and unlimited, you can use it as often as you need for work, study, or personal projects.

Benefits of PDF OCR

Accurate OCR Pull editable text out of photos, scans and screenshots.
Save retyping Turn printed or pictured text into something you can edit in seconds.
Private by design Your images are processed securely and removed afterwards.

Frequently asked questions

How do I extract text from an image?

Upload a photo or scan to PDF OCR; it recognises the text automatically so you can copy and edit it.

Does it work with screenshots and photos?

Yes — it reads text from screenshots, photos of documents and scans, not just clean digital files.