PDF to text converter: extract text from any PDF, even scanned ones
Copy the text out of a PDF in seconds. This free PDF to text converter reads the text layer of normal PDFs and, when a page is a scan or a picture of text, switches to OCR (optical character recognition) to read it. The result appears in a box where you can edit it, check the word and character count, and download it as a TXT or Word file. It runs in your browser, so your PDF is never uploaded, and there is no limit.
How to convert a PDF to text
- If your PDF is scanned, choose the text language.
- Add one or more PDF files by dropping them in the box or clicking it.
- Press Extract text, then copy the text or download it as TXT or Word.
Normal PDFs and scanned PDFs
A normal PDF stores real text, which is extracted instantly and exactly. A scanned PDF stores pictures of pages, so each page is read with OCR instead, which takes a little longer and depends on scan quality. Pages are separated by a blank line.
Word count and character count included
Below the text you see the word count, characters with and without spaces, sentences, paragraphs, reading time and speaking time, updated as you edit.
Frequently asked questions
Is the PDF to text converter free?
Yes. It is free with no limits, watermarks or sign-up.
Is my PDF uploaded to a server?
No. The PDF is processed in your browser and never leaves your device.
Can it read scanned PDFs?
Yes. Pages without a text layer are read with OCR. Sharp, straight scans give the best results.
Can I keep the layout and tables?
Plain text has no layout. For tables, use PDF to Excel
Can I get a Word document instead?
Yes. Download the Word file here, or use the PDF to Word converter.
Are password-protected PDFs supported?
No. Remove the password in your PDF viewer first.
More text and document tools
PDF to Word · PDF to Excel · PDF to JPG · Image to Text · Word Counter · Word to PDF
