How to Convert Scanned PDF to Text
Scanned PDFs are essentially images — you can't select or search the text. OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology converts these image-based PDFs into searchable, editable text. SublimePDF's OCR tool handles this conversion right in your browser.
Follow the step-by-step instructions below, then use the free tool directly — no registration or download required.
Open Tool →How to Convert Scanned PDF to Text — Step by Step
Upload scanned PDF
Open the OCR tool and upload your scanned PDF document.
Select the language
Choose the language of the text in your document for best OCR accuracy.
Run OCR and download
The tool processes each page, recognizes text, and creates a searchable PDF or text file.
Pro Tips
- 💡 Higher resolution scans produce better OCR results
- 💡 Ensure the scan is straight and well-lit for accuracy
- 💡 Review the output for any recognition errors, especially with handwriting
Privacy & Security
All processing happens directly in your browser. Your files are never uploaded to any server — they remain on your device throughout the entire process. SublimePDF uses WebAssembly technology for fast, secure, client-side processing.
Works Everywhere
This tool works on any modern browser — Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge — on desktop, tablet, or mobile. No software to install. PDF is an open ISO standard supported by all major platforms.