Head-to-head · OCR Software
Readiris PDF vs OnlineOCR
Readiris PDF leads on 1 check, OnlineOCR on 1, and 2 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 4 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreReadiris PDF · 7.9/10
- Free planonly OnlineOCR
Readiris PDF scores higher on our rubric for ocr software: 7.9 against 7.8 out of 10; our editors rank them #9 and #10.
OnlineOCR offers free plan; Readiris PDF doesn't. Readiris PDF leads on supported languages: 138 languages versus 46 languages. On primary platform, OnlineOCR gives you Web where Readiris PDF offers Desktop.
Readiris PDF is the better fit for multilingual desktop document conversion. OnlineOCR is the better fit for simple web OCR and API access.
- Readiris PDF fits best
Multilingual desktop document conversion
- OnlineOCR fits best
Simple web OCR and API access
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Side by side
| Feature | Readiris PDF 7.9/10 Visit ↗ | OnlineOCR 7.8/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 7.9 | 7.8 |
| Ranking | #9 in OCR Software | #10 in OCR Software |
| Best for | Multilingual desktop document conversion | Simple web OCR and API access |
| Pricing model | Paid | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | $99/device one-time | $29.95/mo |
| Free plan | — | ✓ (best) |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Cloud |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS | Web |
| Support | Docs | |
| Built for | Solo, Small business | Solo, Small business |
| Features Readiris PDF 2/3 · OnlineOCR 2/3 | ||
| Searchable PDF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Word export | ✓ | ✓ |
| Handwriting OCR | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Supported languages | 138 languages (best) | 46 languages |
| Monthly page limit | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Primary platform | Desktop | Web |
| Supported inputs | Both | Both |
| Our review | ||
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| Our verdict | Readiris PDF is desktop software for converting scanned documents and image-only PDFs into searchable or editable files. It is aimed at individuals, professionals, and organizations that manage paper-based records, scanned PDFs, forms, and… Read the review → |
OnlineOCR is a browser-based optical character recognition service for converting scanned PDFs, photographs, faxes, and digital-camera images into editable or searchable documents. It suits individuals and teams that need straightforward… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Readiris PDF — where it wins
- OCR recognition in 138 languages with searchable PDF creation
- Batch conversion, barcode reading, forms, and PDF editing
- Exports to Office formats and four major cloud storage services
Where it doesn't
- Essential starts at $99 as a one-time purchase
- No free plan; the free trial lasts 10 days
- Desktop coverage is limited to Windows and macOS
OnlineOCR — where it wins
- Free OCR for scanned PDFs and images
- Exports to PDF, Word, Excel, RTF, HTML, and plain text
- Supports 46 languages, batch input, and SOAP/REST APIs
Where it doesn't
- Limited to web and API platforms
- Integration options focus on SOAP and REST
- Paid plans use page allowances and validity periods
- Readiris PDF7.9/10 · Paid
A capable desktop OCR suite with broad language support, batch tools, and a high entry price.
Visit Readiris PDFFull verdict → - OnlineOCR7.8/10 · Free plan
A practical web OCR service with broad export options and API access.
Visit OnlineOCRFull verdict →
All OCR software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update