Recognize Text in Image PDFs with Micro PDF

Micro PDF’s OCR tool uses optical character recognition technology to convert scanned documents and image PDFs (files where text cannot be copied directly) into editable text. Supports 30+ languages including Chinese, English, Japanese, and more. Extracted text can be copied, edited, or saved as new PDFs—perfect for handling scanned contracts, image-based course materials, and paper document digitization.

Whether your scanned documents are blurry or high-definition image PDFs, Micro PDF delivers precise text recognition. Free users access basic recognition features for everyday text extraction needs.

Table of Contents

• Key Features
• How to Use Micro PDF for OCR Recognition
• Recognition Languages & Accuracy Optimization
• Post-OCR File Processing Tools
• Cross-Platform Support & Batch Recognition
• Frequently Asked Questions

Key Features

• Multi-language recognition: Supports Simplified/Traditional Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, French, and 30+ other languages; can recognize mixed-language documents.
• High-accuracy recognition: Clear documents achieve 98%+ accuracy; supports tables, formulas, and complex content (VIP feature).
• Two output modes: “Editable PDF” (preserves original format, text is modifiable) and “Plain Text” (extracts text content only).
• Free basic features: PDFs up to 10MB and 10 pages free per day (3 recognition attempts); no registration required.
• Simple operation: Automatic recognition after file upload—no manual parameter adjustment needed for beginners.

How to Use Micro PDF for OCR Recognition

The Micro PDF OCR tool is convenient—3 steps to complete text extraction:

1. Visit the Micro PDF website: Micro PDF and click the OCR tool.
2. Upload your image PDF or scanned document (drag-and-drop supported; 1 file per session).
3. Select recognition language (default: “Chinese + English”) and output mode (default: “Editable PDF”). Click Start Recognition, then click Download Result (editable PDF or text file).

Pro Accuracy Tips

• Optimize file quality: Ensure scans are clear and not tilted (use Edit PDF to rotate/straighten first); avoid glare or blurriness.
• Select appropriate language: For documents with Japanese/Korean, manually check corresponding languages for higher accuracy.
• Regional recognition: For complex layouts, first use Split PDF to divide by content area, then recognize separately.

Recognition Languages & Accuracy Optimization

Micro PDF supports rich recognition languages with accuracy optimization options:

Accuracy Optimization Settings:

• Enhanced Recognition: For blurry or low-resolution files; automatically optimizes image quality before recognition (slightly longer processing time, available to free users).
• Preserve Layout: Maintains original document paragraphs, line spacing, and table structure after recognition (enabled by default, ideal for format-editing scenarios).

Post-OCR File Processing Tools

Use Micro PDF’s other tools to further process recognized files:

• Edit PDF: Modify, correct, or supplement recognized text in “Editable PDF”.
• PDF to Word: Convert recognized PDF to Word for deep editing.
• PDF Encryption: Set password protection for sensitive recognition results.
• Text Extraction: Export plain text content for copying/pasting or importing into Excel.

Cross-Platform Support & Batch Recognition

Micro PDF OCR supports multi-scenario usage:

• Web browser: Upload files for recognition on desktop; supports multi-language selection—ideal for locally stored scans.
• Mobile app: Micro PDF WeChat Mini Program supports photo recognition (directly photograph paper documents into editable text)—perfect for quick processing while traveling.
• Desktop client: Batch recognition for multiple files (up to 10); supports offline recognition for privacy protection with 50% faster speed than web version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What limitations apply to free OCR recognition?

Free users: files up to 10MB and 10 pages, 3 daily recognition attempts with no watermarks; VIP users have no size/page/attempt limits and unlock high-precision table recognition.

2. What if recognized text contains errors?

Download “Editable PDF” and use the Edit PDF tool to manually correct text errors. For frequent errors (e.g., specific rare characters), provide feedback to customer service for recognition database improvements.

3. Can it recognize handwritten text?

Not currently supported. The OCR tool primarily recognizes printed text; neat handwriting has low accuracy (~60%) and is not recommended.

4. Does the editable PDF match the original file format?

Mostly consistent. The tool preserves original paragraphs, font sizes, and line spacing, though complex layouts (multi-column,图文mix) may show minor deviations requiring manual adjustment.

5. Is internet connection required during recognition?

Web and mobile versions require connection; desktop version supports offline recognition (download language packs first)—ideal for no-network environments or sensitive file processing.

6. Can I recognize only specific PDF pages?

Yes. First use the Split PDF tool to extract desired pages, then upload the split file for OCR recognition—saving time and attempt quotas.

7. Are recognized files stored by Micro PDF?

No. Files are automatically deleted after recognition (download or 24 hours later); servers retain no recognition content or results—compliant with privacy protection standards.