How to Get Text from Screenshots Using Chrome Extensions

| Updated on July 9, 2025

Has it ever happened that you tried copying text from an image, only to realize that you can’t? It happens a lot to me, and I understand how frustrating it can be. But guess what, I’ve finally found the solution to this issue. 

Chrome doesn’t come with a built-in text extraction tool for every image, but there are some smart browser extensions that can save you from this frustration. That too, in a quick and easy manner, no software installations or advanced skills are required. 

Want to know how? Stick to the end to learn how to extract text from screenshots using Chrome extensions, when you might need extra tools (like a VPN) to unlock full access, and how to stay secure using online OCR services.

Key Takeaways 

  • Understanding some copying techniques from screenshots 
  • Discovering numerous real-life examples 
  • Uncovering the procedure of text extraction from an image 
  • Looking at some final tips to speed up the projects 

I. Ever Tried Copying Text from a Screenshot?

Maybe a colleague sent you a screenshot of important numbers. Or you found a quote in an image on a blog post and don’t want to type it all out. Whatever the situation, being able to extract text directly from an image is a huge time-saver.

Screenshots are everywhere: lectures, invoices, product specs, ID scans, WhatsApp chats, social posts. The problem is, they’re just pictures — unless you use OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology to convert them into editable text. 

II. Real-Life Example: Why You Might Need Text Extraction

Let’s say you’re a student revisiting lecture slides or screenshots of handwritten notes. You want to compile your research, but the text is trapped inside image files. Typing everything manually is not only tedious — it also increases the chances of errors.

Or you’re a remote freelancer working with overseas clients. They send you scanned documents in JPEG format. Instead of redrawing everything in Word or Excel, you could use a Chrome extension to extract that information instantly.

These are real-world problems — and the solutions are simpler than you think. 

 Chrome OCR Extensions

III. Best Chrome OCR Extensions to Extrack Text from Images

To extract text from images in your browser, you need an OCR extension — a lightweight Chrome add-on that recognizes and copies text from screenshots or pictures.

Here are some of the top-rated options:

1. Copyfish

  • Quick text recognition from images and video subtitles
  • Supports multiple languages
  • Optional translation mode
  • Works directly in-browser

2. Project Naptha

  • Automatically recognizes text in web images
  • Allows direct selection and copy functions
  • Lightweight and easy to use

3. OCR Scanner – Image to Text

  • Drag-and-drop interface
  • Accurate scanning with layout preservation
  • Offers downloadable text output

🌐 Try this VPN Chrome extension if any of these tools are restricted in your country or by your workplace network. Some Chrome Web Store extensions may be geo-locked, and a VPN ensures full access.

Chrome extensions are convenient because they don’t require you to leave your browser or upload your image to a third-party server. Once installed, they sit quietly in your toolbar, ready whenever you are.

Intriguing Insights 
This infographic shows the market share of global usage of Chrome extensions 

Intriguing Insights This infographic shows the market share of global usage of Chrome extensions 

IV. Step-by-Step: How to Extract Text from an Image

Let’s walk through a complete example using Copyfish, one of the most beginner-friendly OCR extensions:

Step 1: Install the Extension

  • Go to the Chrome Web Store
  • Search for “Copyfish”
  • Click Add to Chrome, then confirm the installation

Step 2: Open or Capture a Screenshot

You can use:

  • The Snipping Tool (Windows)
  • Command + Shift + 4 (Mac)
  • Or just right-click and save any image

Step 3: Activate the Extension

  • Click the Copyfish icon from your toolbar
  • Drag your cursor across the image text area

Step 4: Let the OCR Process Run

  • Within seconds, the tool extracts the text
  • It displays results in a pop-up window
  • From here, you can copy, edit, or translate the content

Step 5: Paste and Use the Text Anywhere

You can paste your extracted text into:

  • Google Docs
  • Excel Sheets
  • Notes
  • Social media drafts
  • Email templates

This saves countless minutes of typing and formatting. 

V. Comparing Chrome OCR Tools: Which One is Best?

ToolBest ForFree?Key Features
CopyfishBeginnersEasy to use, built-in translator
Project NapthaWebsite imagesSelect text on any image online
OCR ScannerStructured layoutsAccurate formatting, exports supported

Each of these tools serves a slightly different purpose. If you’re mostly dealing with images already on websites, Project Naptha works well. For clean, fast extraction and translation, Copyfish is hard to beat.

VI. Advanced Use Cases: Beyond Just Screenshots

Use on Chrome Mobile (With Limitations)

Currently, Chrome mobile doesn’t support extensions — but you can take a screenshot and upload it to an online OCR tool instead. Just make sure you’re connected securely when doing so.

Translating Foreign-Language Text

Using an OCR extension like Copyfish, you can not only extract the text but also translate it instantly — useful for travel, research, or interpreting screenshots from international sources.

Batch Processing with Desktop Tools

If you have dozens of screenshots to convert, consider pairing Chrome OCR with apps like Google Drive’s OCR or Adobe Scan for batch uploads, then switch back to Chrome to organize and finalize your content. 

Batch Processing with Desktop Tools

VII. How to Secure OCR Processing with a VPN

Not all OCR tools operate within the browser. Some — especially those that promise “premium accuracy” — process your images in the cloud. That means your content may pass through third-party servers.

This is especially risky if:

  • You’re extracting financial data
  • The image contains private messages or personal IDs
  • You’re on public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks

🔐 Use a VPN to protect your privacy when using cloud-based OCR platforms. It encrypts your connection, keeps your IP hidden, and shields your uploads from prying eyes — especially when using unsecured hotspots or accessing tools from sensitive locations.

This is just good digital hygiene for anyone working with personal or client-facing content. 

Did you know? 
There are over 130,000 Chrome extensions available, according to Backlinko. 

VIII. Troubleshooting Common Issues

“Extension Can’t Read the Image”

Make sure you’ve given Chrome the correct permissions. Also, try refreshing the page or saving the image first.

“Text Output is Jumbled”

Some OCR tools struggle with handwritten or stylized fonts. For best results:

  • Use high-resolution images
  • Avoid glare or shadows in photos
  • Zoom in on small text

“The OCR Isn’t Detecting Anything”

Check if the image is embedded in a canvas element (common in certain websites). Some tools can’t read text layered in canvas formats. 

IX. Final Tips to Speed Up Your Workflow

  • Pin the OCR tool to Chrome’s toolbar for faster access
  • Use keyboard shortcuts when available (e.g., ALT + O for Copyfish)
  • Organize your screenshots into labeled folders before processing
  • Enable incognito mode to test compatibility with extensions
  • Always verify copied text — OCR isn’t 100% accurate, especially with stylized or low-res images

X. Wrap-Up: Get the Text You Need, When You Need It

Extracting text from images doesn’t have to be a hassle — and with Chrome, it’s just a click away. Whether you’re working with school notes, client documents, or social media screenshots, the right tools can make a huge difference in speed and accuracy.

Just remember:

  • Install a reliable OCR Chrome extension
  • Use a Chrome VPN extension if a tool is blocked
  • Activate a VPN if you upload private images to the cloud

With these tools and tips in hand, you’re ready to make every screenshot searchable, editable, and secure.

FAQ

What are the benefits of Chrome extensions?

Employees love Chrome extensions because they boost productivity, streamline workflows, and let them customize their browsers.

How many people use Chrome extensions?

Chrome is used by 3.2 billion people, yet the biggest user base for one extension is just 17M users.

What is the primary purpose of Chrome extensions in education?

Their main purpose is to streamline tasks, improve productivity, and promote learning for students and educators.





Chitra Joshi

Content Writer & Marketer


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