Private · runs in your browser
OCR PDF: Make a Scanned PDF Searchable
Squire's OCR PDF tool turns a scanned PDF into a searchable one by adding an invisible text layer behind the page images. Your scan looks exactly the same, but now you can search it, select text, and copy lines out — without changing how the document appears. The OCR runs entirely on your device, in your browser.
That on-device approach is the whole point. Unlike Smallpdf or iLovePDF, your file is never uploaded to a server — there are no daily limits and no monthly subscription. You pay $5 once and run OCR on as many scanned PDFs as you want, privately.
100% private — your files never leave your browser. No upload, no account, no subscription.
How to ocr pdf
- Open the OCR PDF tool and select your scanned PDF. Nothing leaves your device — the file loads straight into your browser.
- Pick the page range and language for the text layer, then start the OCR. Processing happens locally on your machine.
- Squire reads the page images and builds an invisible text layer behind them, leaving the original scan untouched.
- Download your searchable PDF — now you can search, select, and copy its text in any PDF reader.
Why Squire
Questions
Are my files uploaded when I run OCR?
No. The OCR runs entirely in your browser on your own device, so your PDF never leaves your computer and is never sent to a server. That makes it safe for sensitive scans like contracts, records, and IDs.
What does "searchable PDF" actually mean?
Squire adds an invisible text layer behind your scanned page images. The document looks identical, but the recognized text sits underneath, so you can search for words, select text, and copy it out in any PDF reader.
Is there a limit on how many PDFs I can OCR?
No daily limits and no subscription. After a one-time $5 payment you can run OCR on as many scanned PDFs as you like, since all the processing happens locally on your device.