ocrmypdf/OCRmyPDF

OCRmyPDF adds an OCR text layer to scanned PDF files, allowing them to be searched

What it solves

OCRmyPDF solves the problem of scanned PDF files being essentially images that cannot be searched, indexed, or copy-pasted. It transforms these "flat" PDFs into searchable documents by adding a precise OCR text layer without destroying the original visual quality.

How it works

It is a scriptable command-line tool that uses the Tesseract OCR engine to recognize text in over 100 languages. The process involves analyzing the PDF, optionally cleaning the image (deskewing or rotating pages), and then inserting the recognized text accurately below the original image. It can produce PDF/A files for long-term archiving and can optimize images to potentially reduce the final file size.

Who it’s for

It is designed for users who need to digitize large volumes of scanned documents, developers looking to automate document processing, and anyone wanting to make their private archives searchable while keeping their data private.

Highlights

  • Searchable PDF/A: Generates industry-standard PDF/A files for long-term storage.
  • Image Optimization: Often produces output files smaller than the input by optimizing embedded images.
  • Lossless Operation: Inserts OCR information without disrupting existing content whenever possible.
  • Preprocessing: Includes built-in capabilities to deskew crooked pages and rotate misaligned pages.
  • Extensible: Supports plugins to replace the Tesseract engine with alternatives like EasyOCR or PaddleOCR.

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