3 Ways to Extract Text From Image

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology has revolutionized the way we handle text extraction from images. Whether for digitizing printed materials, extracting data from screenshots, or converting scanned documents into editable text, OCR makes the process quick and efficient. In this article, we will explore three methods to extract text from images: using online tools, leveraging utilities provided by Microsoft Windows, and utilizing browser extensions.

OCR(Optical Character Recognition)

OCR technology is the backbone of all the methods discussed here. It converts various types of images, such as scanned documents, photographs, or screenshots, into machine-encoded text. This enables easy editing, searching, and data processing.

Way 1: Online Tools

Online tools are convenient for extracting text from images without needing to install any software. They are accessible from any device with internet access and can handle a variety of image formats.

1.1: Brandfolder Workbench

Brandfolder Workbench is a versatile online tool that allows users to extract text from images with precision. It offers customizable recognition areas and supports multiple image sources.

Features and Benefits:

• Customizable Recognition Area: Define specific areas of the image to be processed.
• Multiple Source Options: Supports images from local storage, URLs, Google Drive, and other third-party storage.

How to Use:

Step 1: Go to Brandfolder Workbench.

Step 2: Choose an image from your device, paste a URL, or select from third-party storage.

Step 3: Select the area of the image you want to extract text from.

Note: Webp images cannot be edited when uploaded.

Step 4: Click the "Upload" button. Then click the "Copy text" button to copy text when the process is complete.

1.2: Image to Text

Image to Text is another straightforward online tool that offers free text extraction from images.

Features and Benefits:

• Upload Multiple at Once: Free user can upload upto 3 Files.
• Simple Process: Easy to use with no need for area customization.

How to Use:

Step 1: Navigate to Image to Text.

Step 2: Click on the "Browse" button and select the image.

Step 3: Click the "Convert" button, then the tool processes the image and displays the text, which you can then copy.

Way 2: Tools Provided by Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows offers powerful utilities for text extraction, including PowerToys and the Snipping Tool. These tools are ideal for users who frequently work with text extraction tasks.

2.1: PowerToys Text Extractor

PowerToys is a suite of utilities for Windows power users, and its Text Extractor function is particularly useful for extracting text from images and screenshots.

Features and Benefits:

• Instant Use: Perfect for on-the-fly text extraction from images or screenshots.
• Integrated with Windows: Works seamlessly within the Windows environment.

How to Use:

Step 1: Ensure you have the latest version of PowerToys installed.

Tip: You can install it from Microsoft Store.

Step 2: Open PowerToys settings and enable the Text Extractor.

Step 3: Use the shortcut (Win + Shift + T), select the area of the screen containing the text, and the extracted text will be copied to your clipboard.

Note: To support different languages, you need to install the corresponding OCR language pack.

2.2. Windows 11 Snipping Tool

The Windows 11 Snipping Tool is a versatile utility that now includes text extraction capabilities. This tool is perfect for users who need to capture and process screenshots frequently.

Features and Benefits:

• Screenshot and Extract: Capture a screenshot and extract text from it in one seamless process.
• Customizable Text Selection: After capturing, you can choose which text to copy.

How to Use:

Step 1: Use the shortcut (Win + Shift + S) to open the Snipping Tool.

Step 2: Select the area of the screen you want to capture.

Step 3: Open the screenshot in the Snipping Tool editor, use the text actions feature to highlight and copy the text you need.

Step 4: Control whether to save the screenshot or just copy the extracted text.

Way 3: Browser Extensions

Browser extensions provide a powerful way to extract text from images directly within your web browser. These extensions can handle images from websites and local storage opened in the browser.

Extract Text from Image Extension

The "Extract Text from Image" browser extension is available on the Chrome Web Store and offers robust OCR capabilities.

Features and Benefits:

• Comprehensive Recognition: Can extract text from most websites and images.
• Local Image Support: For local images, open them in the browser to extract text.

How to Use:

Step 1: Go to the extension page and install the extension.

Step 2: Pin the extension icon in your browser toolbar for fast access.

Step 3: Click the extension and drag to select the area of the image containing the text on a webpage. The extension will process and display the extracted text.

Note: Toggle on the "Allow access to file URLs" option to allow access to local file url.

Conclusion

Extracting text from images is made easy and efficient with OCR technology. Whether you choose online tools like Brandfolder Workbench and Image to Text, leverage the utilities provided by Microsoft Windows, or utilize browser extensions, each method offers unique advantages to suit different needs. Explore these options to find the best fit for your workflow and start extracting text from images effortlessly.