TextCapture
VS
OwlOCR
TextCapture
TextCapture is an advanced text extraction tool designed specifically for Mac users, combining lightning-fast on-device OCR with powerful AI-driven recognition capabilities. By simply dragging to select any area on the screen, users can extract text—including complex formatting, tables, code snippets, and emojis—with accuracy and ease. The tool offers both a local mode for secure, offline processing and an AI mode leveraging OpenAI for enhanced context and formatting preservation, supporting over 55 languages in total.
TextCapture prioritizes user privacy by processing data locally unless the AI mode is activated with the user's own API key. Customizable keyboard shortcuts, multi-lingual support, and one-time straightforward pricing make it a tailored solution for professionals who value efficiency, accuracy, and security in their workflow. Suitable for a range of use cases, it streamlines tasks that require extracting unselectable or embedded text from videos, images, or secured documents.
OwlOCR
OwlOCR empowers macOS users to easily capture and extract text from screen areas, images, and scanned documents with on-device Optical Character Recognition. This privacy-first solution leverages Apple's OCR algorithms running entirely on the user's device, ensuring that no personal data leaves the machine during processing. Users can rapidly grab text even from embedded sources such as videos or apps, and instantly paste results wherever needed.
The tool adapts to various workflows by supporting shortcuts, menubar access, Finder Extensions, command line integration, and drag-and-drop functionality. OwlOCR allows the creation of searchable PDFs, batch processing of files, QR code scanning, and export of OCR results to text files, making it a versatile addition to any productivity toolkit for macOS environments.
Pricing
TextCapture Pricing
TextCapture offers Pay Once pricing .
OwlOCR Pricing
OwlOCR offers Freemium pricing with plans starting from $1 per month .
Features
TextCapture
- Lightning Fast: Instantly captures and processes text for seamless workflow.
- Secure On-Device Processing: Ensures all data stays local unless AI mode is enabled.
- Custom Shortcuts: Allows personal keyboard shortcuts for quick access.
- Multi-lingual Support: Recognizes and extracts text in over 55 languages.
- AI-Powered Extraction: Uses advanced AI for superior recognition and format preservation.
- Format Detection: Intelligently preserves text formatting and layout.
- Emoji Support: Accurately captures emojis along with text.
- Flexible Modes: Choose between local fast OCR or advanced AI extraction with OpenAI API key.
- Table & Code Extraction: Maintains indentation and spacing in complex content.
OwlOCR
- On-Device OCR: Secure, instant text extraction without transferring data off the user's Mac.
- Searchable PDF Creation: Export processed images and documents as searchable PDF files with invisible text layers.
- Batch Processing: Process multiple images or multi-page PDFs in one operation using all available CPU cores (Pro).
- Customizable Shortcuts: Quickly trigger screen grabs or OCR actions with user-defined keyboard shortcuts.
- Workflow Integration: Access via menubar, Finder Extensions, command line, drag-and-drop, and iOS device camera.
- QR and Barcode Scanning: Easily extract and open URLs from QR codes and barcodes.
- Export Options: Save OCR results to text files and more.
- Finder Integration: Directly process files from Finder using Extensions.
- Privacy Protection: All OCR processing is local with no data leaving the device.
- Multi-Language Support: Recognize text in multiple languages based on macOS version.
Use Cases
TextCapture Use Cases
- Extracting unselectable or embedded text from videos, images, or PDFs.
- Copying code snippets with formatting intact for programming workflows.
- Capturing tables and structured documents while preserving layout.
- Transcribing multilingual content from visual material for translation or reference.
- Archiving handwritten notes or classroom board writings for digital storage.
OwlOCR Use Cases
- Capturing and copying text from videos, protected documents, or inaccessible app windows.
- Converting scans or photographed documents into searchable, editable PDFs.
- Batch processing image files or PDFs for rapid document digitization.
- Integrating OCR into automated workflows via command line interface.
- Extracting QR code URLs from screenshots or scanned images for fast access.
- Running text recognition on receipts or business cards directly from the Mac or via iOS camera.
FAQs
TextCapture FAQs
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What is the difference between Local and AI Text Extraction mode?
Local mode uses fast, secure on-device OCR without the need for an API key, while AI mode leverages advanced AI (with a user-provided OpenAI API key) for enhanced format preservation and context understanding. -
Do I need an OpenAI API key to use TextCapture?
An OpenAI API key is only required for AI Text Extraction mode. Local mode functions fully without it. -
Can I customize the keyboard shortcut?
Yes, TextCapture allows you to set custom keyboard shortcuts for faster and more personalized text capture. -
What macOS versions does TextCapture support?
TextCapture supports macOS 14 Sonoma or newer on both Intel and Apple Silicon devices. -
What languages does TextCapture support?
TextCapture supports text extraction in over 55 languages in AI mode, and 18 languages in local mode.
OwlOCR FAQs
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Is my data secure when using OwlOCR?
Yes, all OCR processing is performed locally on your Mac, ensuring your files and screenshots never leave your device. -
Which macOS versions are supported?
OwlOCR requires macOS 10.15 or newer and is optimized for macOS 13 (Ventura). -
Can I use OwlOCR for free?
Yes, the core features are free forever with unlimited high-quality text recognition and no registration required. Pro features are available with a paid license after a 21-day free trial. -
What file types are supported for OCR?
Supported input file types include PDF, PNG, JPEG, GIF, and HEIC. -
Does OwlOCR support multiple languages?
Yes, language support includes English and a range of other languages depending on your macOS version.
TextCapture
OwlOCR
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