Are you struggling with PDFs that seem like secret code puzzles rather than readable documents? If so, you're not alone.
Many people face the same challenge when dealing with PDF files. But worry not because OCR is here to save the day! You can easily create readable PDFs with the help of it.
There are many tools you can use for the OCR feature. In this guide, we will show you how to convert PDFs to readable text using the best tools. Then, we'll compare them to see which method is better.
So, let's jump in.
How to Convert PDF to Readable Text with UPDF
If you have a picture or a scanned document in PDF and you want to convert it to readable text, you need the OCR technology.
OCR or Optical Character Recognition enables computers to recognize and interpret text within images or scanned documents. It converts printed or handwritten characters into machine-readable text.
Thus, it is essential to make content readable and editable.
What is UPDF's OCR Feature?
UPDF is an all-in-one PDF solution that fulfils all your requirements. It has a user-friendly interface and strong compatibility with all platforms.
Among many of its features lies the OCR feature. This feature is powered by AI and supports 38 languages. You can use it to convert books, invoices, or other paper-based materials into readable PDF text.
Now, let's see how you can use the OCR feature in UPDF to turn PDF to readable text.
Step-by-Step Guide on Creating Readable PDF
Step 1: First of all, click the button below to download UPDF for free.
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Step 2: Click on "Open File" and select the PDF you want to convert into readable text.
Step 3: Select "Recognize text using OCR" from the right toolbar. (Note: If you are doing this for the first time, you will have to download the OCR plugin. You will see the download progress on the screen. Once it downloads, click on "Recognize text with OCR" again.)
Step 4: From the two available options, choose the "Searchable PDF" option.
Step 5: Choose the layout from the three options.
- Text and pictures only: Text and pictures will be converted to readable text. The file size will be smaller, and the structure may be different from the original.
- Text over the page image: UPDF will only retain the background images and illustrations. The file size will be larger, and they also differ from the original.
- Text under the page image: UPDF retains the images but also places the text under the images as an invisible layer. The file is pretty similar to the original.
For more layout settings, click on the gear icon.
Step 6: From the dropdown menu, choose the appropriate "Document Language." Adjust the "Image Resolution" and "Page Range" as you see fit.
Step 7: Click on "Perform OCR". UPDF will convert your PDF into readable text. You can then save it for future use.
Now that your PDF is editable and searchable, you can go to the "Edit PDF" mode and make any changes to your PDF documents. If you are satisfied with the OCR result, you may want to upgrade UPDF to Pro. Do it now as it is offering a grand offer and don't miss the opportunity.
How to Convert PDF to Readable Text Online
If you want to convert PDF to readable text, you can also use online tools. One such tool is Image to Text Converter - OnlineOCR.
It is an online converter that uses the OCR technology. You can convert images to text or convert PDF to Word, Excel, or Text formats.
Step-by-Step Guide
In order to use this tool, follow the steps below.
- Step 1: Go to the OnlineOCR website.
- Step 2: Upload the file you want to convert into readable text.
- Step 3: Choose the language and output format.
- Step 4: Click on "Convert."
- Step 5: Save the document on your PC.
Limitations and Disadvantages of Converting PDF to Readable Text
Although this is a quick and easy way to create readable text, it is not the most ideal solution. There are certain disadvantages and limitations that come with this tool.
- Only supports 15MB file size.
- Converts to only 3 formats: Word, Excel, and Plain Text.
- Requires you to sign up for more features.
- It may not always preserve the formatting of the original document.
- No use without the Internet.
Considering these disadvantages, it might be better to opt for a proper PDF tool such as UPDF.
Comparing the 2 Methods to Turn PDF into Readable Text
In order to help you decide which of the 2 methods discussed above is better, we are going to compare them. The factors that we will judge are pricing, stability, OCR results, and more.
| UPDF OCR | OCR Online | |
| Pricing | US$29.99/year US$49.99/perpetual | Free |
| Stability | More stable | Less stable |
| OCR Results | Very accurate | Formatting may change |
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Pros | Secure and safeStable and accurateAvailable offlineLots of editing features | FreeNo need for installationSpeedy resultsConvert to different formats |
| Cons | Requires downloadingNeed premium version for advanced featuresSupports only 38 languages | File size limitOnly converts to 3 formatsNot very stableChanges formattingRequires the Internet |
FAQs on Creating Readable PDF
We have answered some of the most common questions about creating readable PDFs.
1. What is a PDF readable format?
A PDF readable format refers to a PDF document that contains text that is easily accessible and legible. You can achieve this by using the OCR technology. Simply convert scanned PDFs or images into text-based PDFs. It makes the content readable and editable.
2. How do I create a readable PDF?
You need the OCR technology to create a readable PDF. For the OCR technology, you can use special software like UPDF. As UPDF is more reliable, it is best to use it for converting. Download UPDF, open your PDF, perform OCR, and save the readable PDF.
3. Why is my PDF not readable?
There are several reasons why your PDF may not be readable. It may be because of a corrupted file or the absence of a PDF file reader. There may also be a need for OCR technology. In such cases, it is best to opt for UPDF to make your PDF readable.
Conclusion
The frustration of a non-readable PDF is very common. Considering this issue, it is important to convert such PDFs into readable text.
For that purpose, you can use UPDF's OCR feature or an online tool called OCR Online. Both tools can get you the results. However, online tools are not very reliable in terms of accuracy, file size, and more.
That's why UPDF is the ultimate choice to create readable PDFs.
So, go and get UPDF now!
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