OCR PDF Converter
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How to OCR a PDF file
Click the + button or drag & drop your PDF file into the upload area.
Select a format, and we’ll convert your file into a searchable and editable document.
Download your new document to your device.
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Why we’re the best PDF to OCR converter
Choose PDF, Word, or TXT
With our online tool, you can create fully editable PDFs, Word documents, or TXT files. Choose the output format that best suits your needs.
Recognize text
With OCR technology, you can extract printed or handwritten text from images and scans, converting it into an editable file in seconds.
Create searchable PDF files
With our online OCR tool, you can turn scanned documents into searchable PDFs to locate keywords and other important details within your documents.
Integration with PDF tools
Our PDF to OCR text converter works seamlessly with other PDF Guru tools, so you can easily merge, sign, and compress your files in one place.
Precise OCR tool
Enjoy precise results with smart OCR that detects fonts, layouts, and complex details to accurately convert any PDF into a readable, searchable document.
Secure processing
Get your readable PDF files with peace of mind — all conversions are protected with HTTPS encryption.
Run OCR on PDF for transformative results
Our PDF OCR converter turns scanned documents into editable, searchable text. Access key details from contracts, receipts, and image-based files with ease. Fully integrated with other Lead PDF Editor features, this tool lets you edit, merge, and sign documents seamlessly — all in one place.
OCR Your PDF Automatically
Frequently asked questions
What is OCR?
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is a technology that converts scanned documents or images with non-selectable, non-searchable text into fully editable and searchable documents. Basically, OCR unlocks the following features for your documents:
- PDF search;
- Text editing;
- Copy and paste;
- Enhanced accessibility;
- Indexing and archiving;
- Keyword highlighting.
Curious about how it works? Try our searchable PDF converter — simply upload your file, select the output format, and let us do the rest.
How does OCR work?
When you use our OCR tool for PDF text recognition, it first scans your document. Next, it sharpens the visual content, removing any blurs or background marks. Then, it “reads” the letters and numbers, recognizing them by comparing their shapes to known patterns. Finally, it converts this text into a digital format, so you can edit or search through it just like any regular document.
You’ll see just how easy it is to turn PDF text to searchable, editable content. In the next FAQ section, you’ll find step-by-step instructions on how to run OCR on PDF.
How to make a PDF searchable?
In order to convert PDF to searchable PDF, follow these steps:
- Scroll to the top of the page.
- Click the + button or drag and drop your file into the window.
- Select Searchable PDF as your output format and name your file.
- Hit Download.
- Wait a few seconds for the tool to convert PDF to a searchable PDF format.
You can use our PDF converter OCR for Mac and other devices like phones or tablets — a stable internet connection is all you need.
Will OCR text recognition affect document formatting?
The output file extension you choose will affect how your document looks and functions.
For example, if you choose to convert your PDF to readable PDF, it will keep the original layout and design while also making the text selectable, editable, and searchable.
If you want to make PDF searchable by converting to Word (DOCX), you might see some changes in the original layout.
Saving the document as plain text (TXT) will remove all formatting, leaving only raw text itself.
Does OCR for PDF documents work in every language?
Our OCR PDF editor supports 195 languages, which enhances usability across various linguistic contexts. Whether you’re dealing with legal documents, academic papers, or personal notes, OCR helps make PDFs readable and easy to manage for all your content needs.
Can I extract text from a scanned PDF?
Of course! Our tool allows you to convert the scanned document into a Word file or plain text — the process takes mere seconds. What’s more, all your processed files will be securely saved in your Lead PDF Editor account for future use.