Extract Text from PDF
Reads the text layer of a PDF with PDF.js and gives you plain text, page by page.
No files yet. Add one to begin.
🔒 All processing happens in your browser — files never leave your device
How it works
- Add a PDF.
- Select Extract text.
- Copy the text or download a .txt file.
Good to know: Only selectable text is extracted. Scanned PDFs are images and return nothing (there is no OCR). Columns, tables and reading order may come out jumbled, and formatting is lost.
Limits: One PDF, up to 100 MB and 300 pages.
Privacy and processing
All processing happens in your browser — files never leave your device
One PDF, up to 100 MB and 300 pages.
Frequently asked questions
Does adding a white box securely erase text?
No. Use the Redact tool for sensitive content; a whiteout or shape is only a visual cover.
Can the editor rewrite paragraphs like a word processor?
No. Its text replacement is approximate and does not reflow surrounding page content.
Do my PDFs upload to the site?
No. The editor processes files locally in your browser.
What does Extract Text from PDF do?
Copy or download the text inside a PDF. Reads the text layer of a PDF with PDF.js and gives you plain text, page by page.
Does this tool upload my files or input?
Your input stays in this browser and is not uploaded to Smart Online Tools.