# DjVu vs PDF for scanned documents

> Compare DjVu and PDF for file size, searchable text, compatibility, and sharing. Decide when to keep the DjVu source or export a PDF.

Source: https://niraqua.com/djvu/djvu-vs-pdf/

Keep the DjVu source when you want to preserve the file you received. Export a PDF when the recipient, reader, or submission system requires PDF. Keeping both avoids replacing the source with a conversion.

## Compare the formats

| Requirement | DjVu | PDF |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Reading support | Requires a compatible reader | Supported by many browsers and document apps |
| Scan size | Can be compact with layered compression | Depends on image encoding and resolution |
| Search and copy | Requires a text layer | Requires text, including an OCR layer for scans |
| Annotation | Depends on the reader | Supported by many PDF editors |
| Archive submission | Check the archive's accepted formats | Some archives require a specific PDF/A profile |

## File size and quality

Neither format guarantees a particular size or image quality. Compare the same pages at readable resolution. A PDF made from a DjVu may be larger, and reducing resolution can remove detail. Conversion cannot restore detail missing from the source.

The [DjVuLibre documentation](https://djvu.sourceforge.net/doc/) explains DjVu compression and file structure.

## Searchable text

Both formats can contain page images without usable text. OCR creates a searchable text layer but can introduce recognition errors. Inspect copied text against the original page.

## Export a copy

[Niraqua DjVu](https://niraqua.com/djvu/) exports DjVu to PDF on Mac, iPhone, and iPad, with optional OCR. Choose all pages or a range. See [convert DjVu to PDF](https://niraqua.com/djvu/djvu-to-pdf/).

A PDF export is not a claim of PDF/A compliance. If an archive specifies PDF/A, validate the file against the required profile before submitting it.