Extract text from photos and PDFs

Read the text in a photo, a scan or a PDF, then copy it or save it as a .txt file.

⬇ First use of this language will download around 10 MB of data.

The first time you use a language, a small engine and that language’s data (a few MB) are downloaded from this website and then kept by your browser. Your images and the extracted text never leave your device.

Free to use, with no sign-up. Works on your phone, tablet or computer.

How it works

  1. Choose photos or a PDF.
  2. Pick the language of the text.
  3. Extract, then copy or download the text.

Clear, well-lit, straight-on photos give the best results. PDFs are read up to 20 pages.

When to use it

  • Copy text from a photo of a page, sign or whiteboard.
  • Read the text in a scanned PDF so you can search or edit it.
  • Save the recognised text as a .txt file.

Common questions

How do I get the best result?

Clear, well-lit, straight-on photos give the best results.

Can I choose the language?

Yes. Pick the language of the text before you extract.

How many PDF pages can it read?

PDFs are read up to 20 pages.

Is it free, and do I need an account?

It is free to use and there is no sign-up. It works in your browser on your phone, tablet or computer.

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