Searchable PDF
Run OCR on a scanned PDF so its text becomes selectable and searchable.
- 100% Private
- No Limits
- Works Offline
or drag and drop here
Transform scanned documents and image-only PDFs into searchable, selectable files. Optical character recognition adds an invisible text layer to every page right in your browser, letting you highlight, search with Ctrl+F, and copy text without sending your files away.
How to Use Searchable PDF
- 1
Upload your scanned PDF
Click the upload area or drag in the scanned document you want to make searchable.
- 2
Recognize text
Click the action button to detect and process text across all pages in Thai and English automatically.
- 3
Download searchable PDF
Save your updated PDF with selectable text ready to search, copy, and quote.
Why Choose PurePDF for Searchable PDF
Nothing leaves your device
Text recognition runs locally inside your browser, so your scanned documents stay completely private.
Automatic Thai and English
Reads both Thai and English text in a single pass without making you choose language settings.
Search and copy anywhere
Use Ctrl+F to find words instantly and copy quotes directly from scanned pages.
Common Use Cases for Searchable PDF
Scanned receipts & contracts
Make scanned paperwork searchable so you can locate invoice numbers, dates, or terms in seconds.
Study guides & book scans
Turn photographed book pages and printed lecture handouts into selectable study notes.
Document archiving
Ensure scanned company records can be indexed and found quickly inside document archives.
Pro Tips for Searchable PDF
- Clear, straight scans with good contrast give the most accurate text recognition results.
- The first time you use the tool, it briefly downloads the recognition engine to your browser for fast future use.
- Use Extract Text afterward if you need all recognized text exported into a plain text file.
Frequently Asked Questions About Searchable PDF
Will my PDF file be uploaded to a server?
No — nothing is uploaded. This tool runs entirely in your browser via WebAssembly/JavaScript; your file never leaves your device.
Is there a file-size limit, a usage cap, or a hidden fee?
It's free and unlimited, with no watermark and no forced file-size cap — the only real limit is your own device's memory for very large files.
Do I need to create an account or sign up?
No — no account, email, or sign-up is required for any tool. Just start using it.
Can I use this on my phone (iPhone or Android)?
Yes — it works in any modern mobile browser, no app install needed.
Does the OCR engine recognize both Thai and English text?
Yes. It automatically detects and processes both Thai and English text across all pages in a single pass.
Why does the tool take a moment on its first use?
The first time you use the tool, it briefly downloads the recognition engine to your browser for fast future use.