9 Best OCR Software of 2024 (Free and Paid Tools)

Reviewed by: Jayprakash Prajapati | Last updated on December, 17, 2023

Want to jump straight to the answer? The Best OCR Software for most people is Nanonets, Foxit Software, or PSPDFKit.

In today’s digital era, converting physical documents into editable and searchable digital formats is crucial for efficient data management. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software is the magic wand that makes this transformation possible.

OCR technology allows businesses to extract text from images, scanned documents, and even handwritten notes, enabling easy editing, storage, and retrieval. Let’s delve into the world of OCR software and explore how it revolutionizes document management.

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software is a transformative tool that converts printed or handwritten text in images and documents into machine-readable and editable digital text.

I want to show you the top-range OCR Software in 2024, available on the market today, reviewed in deep depth, and help you decide which is best for your business.

What Is The Best OCR Software.

Here are my picks for the Best OCR Software to use this year.

1. Nanonets.

Nanonets is a robust OCR software solution that excels in accurately extracting text and data from images and documents. With its machine learning capabilities, customization options, and integration features, it provides a valuable tool for businesses seeking to automate data entry, enhance document processing, and improve operational efficiency.

Nanonets is an advanced Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software solution designed to accurately extract text and data from images, documents, and scanned materials. Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning, Nanonets enables businesses to automate data entry, enhance document processing, and improve overall operational efficiency. Here’s an overview of how Nanonets serves as an OCR software solution

Key Features:

Image and Document Processing: Nanonets is equipped to process various types of images and documents, including scanned papers, invoices, receipts, forms, and more.
Text Extraction: The software employs sophisticated algorithms to accurately extract text from images and documents, regardless of variations in fonts, sizes, and formats.
Data Extraction: Nanonets goes beyond simple text extraction by identifying and extracting specific data fields, such as names, dates, addresses, and numbers.
Machine Learning: Nanonets leverages machine learning models to continuously improve accuracy over time. It learns from human input and adapts to various document layouts and languages.
Customization: The software allows users to train and fine-tune OCR models for specific use cases, ensuring high accuracy and relevance to the business context.
Automated Data Entry: Nanonets automates data entry processes by swiftly extracting relevant information from documents and populating databases or systems.
Data Validation: The platform can validate extracted data against predefined rules or databases, ensuring accuracy and minimizing errors.
Integration Capabilities: Nanonets offers integrations with various software systems, enabling seamless data transfer and enhancing existing workflows.
Document Classification: The software can classify documents into different categories, making it easier to organize and process large volumes of diverse documents.
Real-time Processing: Nanonets supports real-time processing, allowing organizations to extract and process information immediately as documents are received.
Scalability: The platform is designed to handle large-scale OCR tasks, making it suitable for businesses with high volumes of documents and data to process.
Data Security: Nanonets emphasizes data security by providing encryption and access controls, ensuring that sensitive information is protected.
Reporting and Analytics: The software provides insights into OCR accuracy, processing times, and performance metrics, helping organizations monitor their document processing operations.
Technical Support: Nanonets typically offers technical support and resources to assist users in implementing and optimizing their OCR solutions.

Pricing:

You can easily get started at Nanonets with a free sign-up. If you want more features besides free sign-up. So you will have to step up to the paid plan. If this plan does not match your personal reasons or business, I would recommend you to drop a mail to their customer support or you can contact them directly as per availability.

Get started with Nanonets

2. Foxit Software.

Foxit OCR software is a versatile solution for accurate text extraction and document conversion. With its language support, data extraction capabilities, and integration options, it provides a valuable tool for businesses seeking to digitize documents, enhance accessibility, and optimize their document-related workflows.

Foxit Software offers an advanced Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software solution that enables users to convert scanned documents and images into editable and searchable text. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, Foxit OCR software streamlines document processing, enhances data accessibility, and improves overall productivity. Here’s an overview of how Foxit OCR software serves as a powerful solution

Key Features:

Document Conversion: Foxit OCR software can convert scanned paper documents, images, and PDF files into selectable and editable text content.
Text Extraction: The software employs advanced algorithms to accurately extract text from images, ensuring high accuracy even for complex fonts and layouts.
Searchable PDF Creation: Foxit OCR enables the creation of searchable PDFs by adding invisible text layers to scanned images, making the content searchable and indexable.
Language Support: The software supports multiple languages, making it suitable for global businesses dealing with documents in various languages.
Data Extraction: In addition to text, Foxit OCR can identify and extract specific data elements such as numbers, dates, and addresses.
Batch Processing: Foxit OCR supports batch processing, allowing users to process multiple documents or pages simultaneously for efficient workflows.
Automated Workflows: The software can be integrated into automated workflows, enabling seamless document conversion and data extraction.
Accuracy Enhancement: Foxit OCR includes tools to enhance recognition accuracy, enabling users to correct errors and improve results.
Customization: Users can customize recognition settings and dictionaries to improve accuracy for specific use cases and industry requirements.
Integration Capabilities: Foxit OCR integrates with Foxit’s PDF solutions and other software systems, facilitating data exchange and process optimization.
Document Editing: Once text is extracted, users can edit and format the content within their preferred word processing software.
Data Security: Foxit emphasizes data security by providing encryption, access controls, and compliance with privacy regulations.
Reporting and Analytics: The software may offer insights into OCR accuracy, processing times, and performance metrics to monitor and improve operations.
Technical Support: Foxit Software typically provides technical support and resources to assist users in deploying and utilizing their OCR solutions effectively.

Pricing:

You can easily get started at Foxit Software with a free sign-up. If you want more features besides free sign-up. So you will have to step up to the paid plan. If this plan does not match your personal reasons or business, I would recommend you to drop a mail to their customer support or you can contact them directly as per availability.

Get started with Foxit Software

3. PSPDFKit.

PSPDFKit’s OCR software is a robust solution for transforming scanned content into dynamic, searchable text. With its language support, data extraction capabilities, and integration options, it offers a valuable tool for businesses aiming to enhance document accessibility, optimize processes, and enable collaboration through interactive and searchable documents.

PSPDFKit offers a comprehensive Optical Character Recognition (OCR) solution that empowers businesses to convert scanned documents, images, and PDF files into searchable and editable text. PSPDFKit’s OCR software enhances document processing, content accessibility, and collaboration by transforming static content into dynamic, interactive text. Here’s an overview of how PSPDFKit’s OCR software serves as a versatile solution

Key Features:

Document Conversion: PSPDFKit’s OCR software can convert various types of documents, including scanned papers, images, and PDF files, into searchable and selectable text content.
Text Extraction: The software utilizes advanced recognition algorithms to accurately extract text from images, preserving formatting and layout fidelity.
Searchable Content: By adding a hidden text layer to images, PSPDFKit OCR ensures that documents become searchable, enabling users to locate specific words or phrases.
Language Support: The solution supports multiple languages, making it suitable for businesses operating in diverse linguistic environments.
Data Extraction: PSPDFKit OCR can identify and extract specific data elements like dates, numbers, and addresses, enhancing data processing capabilities.
Batch Processing: The software supports batch processing, allowing users to process multiple documents or pages simultaneously for efficiency.
Integration Capabilities: PSPDFKit OCR can be seamlessly integrated into existing workflows and software systems, facilitating smooth data exchange and optimized processes.
Interactive PDFs: After conversion, documents remain in the PDF format, enabling users to interact with the content, highlight text, and add annotations.
Customization: Users can customize recognition settings to improve accuracy for particular use cases and industry requirements.
Collaboration and Accessibility: Searchable and editable content enhances collaboration and accessibility, enabling team members to engage with documents more effectively.
Data Security: PSPDFKit emphasizes data security with encryption, access controls, and compliance measures to protect sensitive information.
Reporting and Analytics: The software might offer insights into OCR accuracy, processing metrics, and performance indicators to monitor and optimize operations.
Technical Support: PSPDFKit typically provides technical support and resources to assist users in deploying and utilizing their OCR solutions effectively.

Pricing:

You can easily get started at PSPDFKit with a free sign-up. If you want more features besides free sign-up. So you will have to step up to the paid plan. If this plan does not match your personal reasons or business, I would recommend you to drop a mail to their customer support or you can contact them directly as per availability.

Get started with PSPDFKit

4. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.

Best OCR Software - Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC’s OCR feature is a robust solution for transforming scanned content into searchable and editable text. With its language support, data extraction capabilities, integration options, and collaboration features, it offers a comprehensive tool for businesses seeking to enhance document accessibility, streamline processes, and collaborate effectively through OCR-empowered PDFs.

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is a renowned software solution that includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities, allowing users to convert scanned documents and images into searchable and editable text. As part of the broader Adobe Acrobat Pro DC suite, the OCR functionality enhances document processing, content accessibility, and collaboration. Here’s an overview of how Adobe Acrobat Pro DC serves as an OCR software solution

Key Features:

Document Conversion: Adobe Acrobat Pro DC’s OCR feature can convert scanned papers, images, and PDF files into selectable and editable text content.
Text Extraction: The software utilizes advanced algorithms to accurately extract text from images, maintaining fonts, formatting, and layout.
Searchable Content: Through OCR, documents gain a hidden text layer, making them searchable and enabling users to find specific words or phrases.
Language Support: Adobe Acrobat Pro DC supports numerous languages, catering to a wide range of linguistic needs.
Data Extraction: The OCR functionality can identify and extract specific data elements like dates, numbers, and addresses, enhancing data processing capabilities.
Interactive PDFs: After OCR conversion, documents remain in the PDF format, allowing users to interact with the content, highlight text, and add annotations.
Integration Capabilities: Adobe Acrobat Pro DC seamlessly integrates with other Adobe products and external software systems, facilitating data exchange and process optimization.
Editable Documents: Once OCR is applied, users can edit, format, and modify the text within the PDF files, enabling content customization.
Collaboration and Accessibility: Searchable and editable content enhances collaboration and accessibility, making it easier for team members to engage with documents.
Data Security: Adobe Acrobat Pro DC emphasizes data security through encryption, access controls, and compliance measures to protect sensitive information.
Annotations and Markups: Users can add annotations, comments, and markups to the converted text, enhancing document collaboration and review processes.
Reporting and Analytics: While Adobe Acrobat Pro DC doesn’t typically provide detailed OCR-specific reporting, it offers insights into document processing and manipulation.
Technical Support: Adobe typically provides technical support and resources to assist users in deploying, using, and optimizing their Adobe Acrobat Pro DC solution.

Pricing:

You can easily get started at Adobe Acrobat Pro DC with a free sign-up. If you want more features besides free sign-up. So you will have to step up to the paid plan. If this plan does not match your personal reasons or business, I would recommend you to drop a mail to their customer support or you can contact them directly as per availability.

Get started with Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

5. SoftWorks.

SoftWorks AI’s OCR software is a robust solution for converting scanned content into dynamic, searchable text. With its language support, data extraction capabilities, integration options, and collaboration features, it provides a valuable tool for businesses aiming to enhance document accessibility, optimize processes, and enable efficient collaboration through OCR-enhanced documents.

SoftWorks AI offers a comprehensive Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software solution designed to convert scanned documents, images, and PDF files into searchable and editable text. With its advanced technology, SoftWorks AI’s OCR software streamlines document processing, improves data accessibility, and enhances overall operational efficiency. Here’s an overview of how SoftWorks AI serves as an OCR software solution

Key Features:

Document Conversion: SoftWorks AI’s OCR software efficiently converts various types of documents, including scanned papers, images, and PDF files, into selectable and editable text content.
Text Extraction: The software employs advanced recognition algorithms to accurately extract text from images, maintaining formatting and layout integrity.
Searchable Content: By adding a hidden text layer to images, SoftWorks AI OCR ensures that documents become searchable, enabling users to locate specific words or phrases.
Language Support: The solution supports multiple languages, catering to businesses that operate in diverse linguistic environments.
Data Extraction: SoftWorks AI OCR can identify and extract specific data elements like dates, numbers, and addresses, enhancing data processing capabilities.
Batch Processing: The software supports batch processing, allowing users to process multiple documents or pages simultaneously for efficiency.
Integration Capabilities: SoftWorks AI OCR can be seamlessly integrated into existing workflows and software systems, facilitating smooth data exchange and optimized processes.
Customization: Users can customize recognition settings to improve accuracy for specific use cases and industry requirements.
Collaboration and Accessibility: Searchable and editable content enhances collaboration and accessibility, enabling team members to engage with documents more effectively.
Data Security: SoftWorks AI emphasizes data security with encryption, access controls, and compliance measures to protect sensitive information.
Reporting and Analytics: The software offers insights into OCR accuracy, processing times, and performance metrics to monitor and optimize operations.
Technical Support: SoftWorks AI typically provides technical support and resources to assist users in deploying and utilizing their OCR solutions effectively.

Pricing:

You can easily get started at SoftWorks with a free sign-up. If you want more features besides free sign-up. So you will have to step up to the paid plan. If this plan does not match your personal reasons or business, I would recommend you to drop a mail to their customer support or you can contact them directly as per availability.

Get started with SoftWorks

6. Microsoft OneNote.

Microsoft OneNote’s OCR capabilities offer a convenient solution for extracting text from images and enhancing note organization. With its integration with note-taking features, cross-platform accessibility, and collaboration options, it provides users with the ability to digitize content, improve accessibility, and streamline information management within a comprehensive note-taking environment.

Microsoft OneNote is a versatile note-taking and information organization platform that includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities. While it is primarily known for its note-taking features, OneNote’s OCR functionality enables users to convert images with text into searchable and editable content. Here’s an overview of how Microsoft OneNote serves as an OCR software solution

Key Features:

Image Text Recognition: OneNote’s OCR feature allows users to extract text from images, whether they are photographs, screenshots, scanned documents, or handwritten notes.
Searchable Content: When text is extracted from images, it becomes searchable within OneNote. Users can easily locate specific words or phrases within their notes.
Language Support: OneNote supports multiple languages, making it suitable for users who work with documents in various linguistic contexts.
Data Extraction: While OneNote’s OCR is primarily focused on text extraction, it can identify and extract specific data elements, improving data accessibility.
Integration with Note-Taking: OCR-converted text seamlessly integrates with your existing notes and digital notebooks, enhancing the overall organization of information.
Editing and Formatting: Once text is extracted, users can edit and format the content within their notes, allowing for customization and refining the information.
Collaboration: OneNote’s collaborative features enable team members to work together on shared notebooks, leveraging the searchable text extracted from images.
Cross-Platform Accessibility: OneNote is available across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, enabling access to OCR-processed content from any device.
Document Management: OneNote can be used to manage and categorize OCR-processed content, making it easy to find and access information.
Data Security: OneNote emphasizes data security by providing encryption, access controls, and user authentication to protect sensitive information.
Annotations and Markups: Users can add annotations, comments, and markups to the extracted text, enhancing document collaboration and review processes.
Reporting and Analytics: While OneNote doesn’t offer extensive OCR-specific reporting, it provides insights into document organization and note interactions.
Technical Support: Microsoft typically provides technical support and resources to assist users in utilizing and maximizing their OneNote OCR capabilities.

Pricing:

You can easily get started at Microsoft OneNote with a free sign-up. If you want more features besides free sign-up. So you will have to step up to the paid plan. If this plan does not match your personal reasons or business, I would recommend you to drop a mail to their customer support or you can contact them directly as per availability.

Get started with Microsoft OneNote

7. Google Docs.

Google Docs’ OCR capabilities offer a convenient solution for extracting text from images and enhancing document editing and collaboration. With its integration with document editing features, cloud accessibility, collaboration options, and language support, it provides users with the ability to digitize content, improve accessibility, and streamline information management within a comprehensive document editing environment.

Google Docs is a popular cloud-based document editing and collaboration platform that includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities. While Google Docs primarily serves as a document editor, its OCR feature allows users to convert images with text into searchable and editable content. Here’s an overview of how Google Docs serves as an OCR software solution

Key Features:

Image Text Recognition: Google Docs’ OCR feature enables users to extract text from images, including scanned documents, photographs, and screenshots.
Searchable Content: Once text is extracted from images, it becomes searchable within Google Docs, allowing users to locate specific words or phrases.
Language Support: Google Docs supports multiple languages, accommodating users who work with documents in various linguistic contexts.
Data Extraction: While Google Docs’ OCR primarily focuses on text extraction, it can identify and extract specific data elements, enhancing data accessibility.
Integration with Document Editing: The OCR-converted text seamlessly integrates with your existing Google Docs documents, enhancing the overall content of your documents.
Editing and Formatting: Once text is extracted, users can edit, format, and modify the content within their Google Docs documents.
Collaboration: Google Docs’ collaborative features allow team members to collaborate on shared documents containing OCR-processed content.
Cloud Accessibility: Google Docs is accessible from any device with an internet connection, enabling users to access OCR-processed content from anywhere.
Document Management: Google Docs’ organizational features help users manage and categorize OCR-processed content, making it easy to find and access information.
Data Security: Google Docs emphasizes data security by providing encryption, access controls, and user authentication to protect sensitive information.
Annotations and Comments: Users can add annotations, comments, and suggestions to the extracted text within Google Docs documents, enhancing collaboration.
Reporting and Analytics: While Google Docs doesn’t offer extensive OCR-specific reporting, it provides insights into document editing and sharing activities.
Technical Support: Google typically provides technical support and resources to assist users in utilizing and maximizing their Google Docs OCR capabilities.

Pricing:

You can easily get started at Google Docs with a free sign-up. If you want more features besides free sign-up. So you will have to step up to the paid plan. If this plan does not match your personal reasons or business, I would recommend you to drop a mail to their customer support or you can contact them directly as per availability.

Get started with Google Docs.

Executive Summary.

1. Future Trends in OCR Software.

The future may bring improved AI-driven character recognition, enhanced document formatting, integration with AR and VR, and support for more languages.

2. The Power of Text Recognition.

OCR technology empowers businesses to unlock information hidden within physical documents, making them searchable, editable, and more manageable.

3. How OCR Software Works.

OCR software scans images or documents, identifies characters using pattern recognition, and then translates them into digital text that can be edited and searched.

4. Key Features of Top OCR Solutions.

Leading OCR solutions offer features like multilingual support, image enhancement, layout retention, batch processing, and integration with various file formats.

5. Benefits of Using OCR Software.

Using OCR software results in increased productivity, faster information retrieval, reduced manual data entry, improved data accuracy, and enhanced collaboration.

6. Converting Paper to Editable Text.

OCR software eliminates the need to manually type out information from printed documents, saving time and ensuring accuracy during the conversion process.

7. Enhancing Search and Retrieval.

OCR-processed documents become searchable, enabling users to quickly find specific information within large volumes of text.

8. Improving Data Accuracy.

OCR software minimizes errors caused by manual data entry and transcription, leading to improved accuracy in digitized content.

9. Integration with Productivity Tools.

Many OCR solutions seamlessly integrate with productivity tools, allowing users to edit and manage OCR-converted documents in familiar software.

10. Ensuring Data Security.

OCR software should implement data encryption and access controls to ensure the security and confidentiality of digitized documents.

11. Choosing the Right OCR Software.

Selecting the best OCR software involves considering factors such as recognition accuracy, language support, document types, ease of use, and pricing.

12. Overcoming Challenges in OCR.

Challenges in OCR include handling poor image quality, recognizing handwritten text accurately, and ensuring proper layout retention.

13. Language and Font Recognition.

Advanced OCR solutions can recognize a wide range of languages and fonts, ensuring accuracy and usability across diverse documents.

14. Scaling OCR Efforts for Business.

As businesses digitize more documents, scalable OCR solutions accommodate larger volumes, different document formats, and evolving data needs.

Conclusion.

OCR software transforms physical documents into digital assets, enabling businesses to unlock information, improve productivity, and enhance data management.

FAQs About OCR Software

What is OCR Software?

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software converts printed or handwritten text in images and documents into machine-readable and editable digital text.

Why is text recognition important?

OCR technology enables businesses to make printed or handwritten documents searchable, editable, and more manageable.

What benefits does using OCR Software offer?

Using OCR software leads to increased productivity, faster information retrieval, reduced manual data entry, improved data accuracy, and enhanced collaboration.

Can OCR Software integrate with productivity tools?

Yes, many OCR solutions seamlessly integrate with productivity tools, allowing users to edit and manage OCR-converted documents in familiar software.

What is the future of OCR Software?

The future may bring improved AI-driven character recognition, enhanced document formatting, integration with AR and VR, and support for more languages.