TextSniper for Mac

Text extractor utility for desktop

TextSniper is a utility tool developed by Valerijs Boguckis for desktop devices. It helps users extract text from images, as well as documents for their reference or for use with other applications. It recognizes both words and numbers and also offers the option to turn them directly into speech.

Similar to Image Text Extractor or PDF Text Extractor, TextSniper enables users to extract any kind of text, even phone numbers, from virtually any source. The application offers a free trial, as well as single or multi-device licenses to prospective buyers should they wish to use it further.

How does TextSniper work?

Using TextSniper is a simple and straightforward affair. After installation, you will get a new menu bar icon. You can click on it to start capturing new text or you can press Shift-CMD-2 to enable a screengrab more right away. From there, select a portion of your screen that you want to have scanned, and this optical character recognition (OCR) app will then copy text to your clipboard so you paste it wherever you need to.

Performance is a strong point for TextSniper. The speed and accuracy at which it is able to scan, recognize, and process text is rather impressive. It also doesn't get thrown off easily even with complicated elements appearing on the screen. It even supports various languages across the world. As mentioned earlier, you can also opt to have them converted into speech and the program will speak the text back to you.

One nice feature of this tool is that it can also recognize QR codes/barcodes and extract any text that they might have. Now, when it comes to its value proposition, TextSniper faces stiff competition from Live Text, which can essentially do the same thing. While it loses out on extra features, being integrated into the OS and managed directly by Apple will garner favor from some users.

Fast and accurate text transcribing

If you're still on the fence between TextSniper and Apple's own Live Text, the decision will come down to a couple of considerations. If you value flexibility and extra features, the former is a great choice. If you prefer simplicity and quick use, though, the latter is included right into the OS itself. Regardless of which you choose, both will serve you well.