Easily Convert Image to Text Using OCR Technology

This guide will show you how to convert an image to text using specialized OCR technology that is able to read images and scanned PDFs. 

See our other blog about how to improve accessibility using OCR for more use cases.

Megon Venter

B2B SaaS Content Writer

Megon is a B2B SaaS Content Writer with 7 years of experience in content strategy and execution. Her expertise lies in the creation of document management tutorials and product comparisons.

Popular OCR Tools for Converting Images to Text

Here are our team’s recommendations for popular OCR tools to help you convert images into text with a high degree of accuracy.

How to Convert an Image to Text Using OCR

Follow the tutorials outlined below to use one of our three recommended PDF OCR tools to convert your image to text.

Using PDF Reader Pro

Step 1: Download PDF Reader Pro

You can get the latest version of this application for Windows or Mac below:

Get Started with PDF Reader Pro Today!

Free Download Free Download

Alternatively, you can find the mobile version of PDF Reader Pro on iOS and Android.

Step 2: Choose “OCR” on the Home Interface

Upload your chosen image file from your document library.

Alternatively, click "Open File" and find the OCR option on the main toolbar.

Step 3: Adjust the Settings and Click “OCR” 

Choose which format you want your processed document to be saved as.

Using ComIDP Demo

Step 1: Open the Online Interface

This will open a tool for document parsing powered by ComPDF.

Step 2: Click “Open Your File” on the Top Left

This will open your document library and allow you to choose an image to process.

Step 3: Choose Between JSON and TXT Format

Click “Download” at the bottom of the screen to export your file.

Using PDF24 Online

Step 1: Open the PDF24 Interface

You will see a highlighted box for OCR.

Step 2: Click to Open Your File

Alternatively, drag and drop the image into the box.

Step 3: Adjust the Output and Settings

You can opt to change the language or the output format from image to PDF below the upload window by checking the relevant boxes.

Step 4: Click “Start OCR”

This will begin the process of exporting your OCR file in your desired format. 

Expert Tips for Getting the Best OCR Results

OCR technology is powerful, but its accuracy depends on a few key factors. Our experts recommend you do the following to get the best results:

1. Use High-Quality Images

Blurry, low-resolution images can confuse OCR engines. Scan or photograph at 300 DPI or higher for the best results.

2. Keep Text Flat and Well-Lit

Avoid shadows, skewed angles, or curved pages when you are taking the image you want to process with OCR.

3. Crop Out Unnecessary Elements

Remove borders, logos, or unrelated visuals from your image before running OCR. This reduces “noise” and improves text clarity.

4. Choose the Right Language Settings

Many OCR tools support multiple languages. Make sure you select the correct one to help the tool recognize characters more accurately.

5. Use OCR Tools With Layout Preservation

If you're working with documents like invoices, tables, or columns, choose an OCR tool that preserves layout and formatting (like PDF Reader Pro).

6. Proofread the Output

Even with high-end OCR, small errors (like punctuation or letter swaps) can slip through.

Did you find this blog useful? See our blog weekly for more guides on how to get the most out of your editing software.