side-by-side guide
OCR vs text extraction
OCR and text extraction solve different problems. Choosing the right path affects speed, fidelity, and how carefully the output must be reviewed.
direct recommendation
Which path fits this decision?
Use normal text extraction when a readable text layer exists. Use OCR only when the source is fundamentally an image or scan.
dimensionOCRText extraction
Best inputScans, screenshots, and image-only PDFsText PDFs and structured document files
How it readsRecognizes characters from rendered pixelsReads embedded text and document structure
SpeedUsually slower and more memory-intensiveUsually faster
Common errorsMisread characters, numbers, columns, and layoutMissing layers, odd reading order, or unsupported structure
Review needAlways review important names and numbersReview complex layouts and tables
free browser workspace
Test the local path.
Convert, Extract, or Ask in the browser without an account. Useful for interactive review.
developer option
Automate when you need to.
If software needs to process documents repeatedly, the API adds keys, runs, sources, and artifacts. Read docs →
review matters
Know the limits.
Complex layouts, OCR, URL access, and browser memory can affect results. See methodology →