Make PDF Searchable
Convert scanned PDFs into searchable documents.
Click or drag files here
Upload scanned PDF to recognize text
Supported formats: PDF
Browser-based OCR works best on clear, high-contrast documents.
Make Scanned PDFs Searchable
Scanned documents are just images—you can't search, select, or copy the text. PlatinumPDF solves this by using advanced text recognition to make your scans fully searchable. It creates a PDF where the original image is preserved, but an invisible text layer is added on top. This lets you search for keywords (Ctrl+F) and copy-paste content as if it were a digital document. And unlike other tools, ours runs 100% offline in your browser, so your sensitive scans never leave your device.
Powerful Features
100% Private
All processing happens in your browser with zero server uploads. Your sensitive documents remain completely private.
Searchable Output
Generates a standard PDF with an embedded text layer. Compatible with all PDF viewers.
Multi-Language
Support for English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese.
Copy & Paste
Select text directly from your scanned images to copy into Word or emails.
High Accuracy
Uses advanced LSTM neural networks for precise character recognition.
Preview Mode
See the extracted text instantly before you download the final file.
How to OCR a PDF (Step-by-Step)
Upload Scan
Upload your scanned PDF or image file.
Select Language
Choose the language of the document (e.g., English) for better accuracy.
Start Process
Click 'Recognize Text'. The tool will process each page one by one.
Preview & Download
Check the preview text, then download your new searchable PDF.
Who Can Benefit? (15+ Use Cases)
Professional
- Legal: Make scanned contracts searchable for keywords.
- Admin: Digitize paper invoices to copy-paste data into Excel.
- Archivists: Turn physical records into a digital, indexable library.
Personal
- Students: OCR textbook scans to search for study topics.
- Researchers: Extract quotes from old scanned journals.
Real-World Scenarios
Scenario 1: The Unsearchable Contract
Input: A 20-page scanned lease agreement.
Action: User runs OCR.
Output: A PDF where they can hit Ctrl+F to find the "Termination Clause" instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it accurate?
Yes, for clear typed text it is very accurate (95%+). Handwriting or blurry scans may have errors.
Is it private?
Yes. All processing happens on your computer. We never see your documents.