Extract Text from Image Online

Turn photos, scans, and pictures of text into copyable text with free online OCR.

Upload an Image

Choose a JPG or PNG image and extract the text in a few clicks.

How to Extract Text from an Image

Upload an image that contains text — a photo of a document, a sign, a printed page, or a whiteboard. The OCR tool recognizes the characters and returns editable text you can copy instantly.

This page is built for image-to-text jobs. If your file is a PDF, use the PDF to Text page instead for better intent match and tips.

Best Image Formats for OCR

JPG/JPEG and PNG are supported. PNG is often better for screenshots and sharp document photos. JPG is fine for phone photos of printed pages. WebP is not supported yet.

Tip: crop away empty margins, avoid blur, and make sure the text is upright. Higher resolution usually improves recognition of small fonts.

✔ JPG / JPEG – good for phone photos

✔ PNG – ideal for sharp scans and screenshots

✔ PDF – use the PDF to Text tool for multi-page scans

Popular Image-to-Text Use Cases

People use image OCR to avoid retyping. Typical cases include:

✔ Copy text from a photo of a printed document

✔ Extract text from whiteboard photos

✔ Digitize handwritten-looking printed notes (printed text works best)

✔ Convert receipt or label photos into editable text

FAQ: Extract Text from Image

How do I extract text from an image for free?

Upload your JPG or PNG image, run OCR, and copy the extracted text. Free daily page limits apply.

Which image formats are supported?

You can extract text from JPG, PNG, and PDF files. WebP is not supported yet.

Does image quality affect OCR accuracy?

Yes. Clear, well-lit, high-resolution images with straight text usually produce the best results.

Can I extract text from a photo taken with my phone?

Yes. Phone photos work well when the page is sharp, well lit, and fully in frame.

Related OCR Tools

Same upload widget, different focus for each search intent.