Make a scanned PDF searchable
Turn a scan into a PDF you can search, select and copy from.
This tool is almost ready
We are finishing it now. The guide below shows how it will work.
How do I make a scanned PDF searchable?
Open FilesAll's Searchable PDF tool and add your scanned PDF. FilesAll recognizes the printed words on each page in your browser. Saving a searchable PDF that looks like the original, with text you can select and search, is a Pro feature. Copying the text or saving a .txt file is free. Nothing is uploaded.
How to make a scanned PDF searchable in 3 steps
Add your scanned PDF
Press Choose files, or drag your scanned PDF onto the page.
Check the language
The language of this site is picked for you. Choose another if your document is in a different language.
Save the result
With Pro, press Download to save a PDF that looks like your scan but has text you can search and select. On the free plan, press Copy or save the text as a .txt file.
Frequently asked questions
Is the searchable PDF free?
Saving a searchable PDF is part of Pro. On the free plan you can still read the text from your scan, copy it, or save it as a .txt file.
Will my PDF look different?
No. The pages look the same as your scan. The recognized text sits behind each page, so you can search, select and copy it.
What does searchable mean?
A scan is just a picture of a page, so you cannot search it for a word. A searchable PDF also holds the words as real text, so search and copy work.
Can it read handwritten pages?
No. FilesAll reads printed and typed text only. Handwriting is not supported.
Can it read a long scanned document?
Free use covers a set number of pages per document. Pro reads scans of any length.
Is FilesAll free?
Yes. You can use FilesAll free every day without signing up, and the tool shows how many free files you have left today. A free account gives you more each day, and Pro removes the daily limit.
Do I need to install anything?
No. FilesAll works in the web browser you already have, on Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iPhone and Android. There is nothing to install, and you do not need an account to start.
Are my files uploaded?
No. FilesAll does all the work inside your browser, on your own device. Your files are never sent to our servers or anyone else's, and they disappear when you close the tab.
Want to check for yourself? Your browser's developer tools list every request this page makes. None of them carries your file.