Can you read a PDF with Readlang?

If you want to upload the PDF itself

Before you import a PDF, check how the file is put together:

  • Text PDFs contain selectable text. Make sure sentences copy and paste in a sensible order, especially on multi-column pages.
  • Scanned PDFs consist of page images and require text recognition. Solaread handles scanned documents too, though accuracy depends on the quality of the scan.
  • Tables, equations, and complex page layouts are worth checking against the original file, since reflowed text won't preserve how every element is arranged visually.

Reflowed reading and the original page

In the web reader, you can switch back to the original PDF page whenever you want to check the layout. You can read inline word explanations in the reflowed view and refer to the original page alongside it. Doing this doesn't generate a translated copy of the original layout.

Questions

Does a scan always convert perfectly?

No. Blurry type, crooked pages, and complex layouts can throw off text recognition. Check the extracted text against the original before you rely on it.

Where is the full Readlang comparison?

This page focuses solely on PDF uploads.

Read next

Readlang alternative · PDF reader with word translation

From reading to listening

This page focuses on Solaread's reading tools. In the web app, you can also import your own audio and video, find podcasts, read along with transcripts, and look up unfamiliar words. You can save vocabulary to review later in its original sentences, and use recommendations and difficulty labels to pick out books, articles, and videos.

An AI language teacher for talking through what you've read, heard, or watched is on the way, though it isn't available yet. Use the web app for the latest listening features, as the Mac download can differ.

Reading and listening FAQ · Platforms and downloads