Browser-based Base64 utility
Base64 Encoder & Decoder — Free Online Tool
Encode and decode Base64 text, files, and images instantly in your browser. No uploads, no API calls, and no data leaves your device.
What Is Base64 Encoding?
Base64 is a text-based encoding format that turns binary data into readable characters. Developers use it when raw binary bytes need to move through systems that expect plain text, such as HTML, JSON payloads, email bodies, or headers.
It does not compress or secure data. Instead, it changes the representation so that files, images, or credentials can be safely transported in text-friendly environments.
When Do Developers Use Base64?
Common use cases include email attachments, inline data URLs, API authentication headers, and embedding small images directly in CSS or HTML. It is also useful when you need to inspect file payloads while debugging browser or backend workflows.
Base64 vs URL Encoding — What's the Difference?
Base64 converts raw data into a limited character set. URL encoding is different: it escapes reserved URL characters such as spaces, `?`, `&`, or `#`. If you need binary or file content represented as text, use Base64. If you need to safely place characters inside a URL, use URL encoding.
How to Use This Base64 Tool
- 1. Choose a tab for text conversion or image/file conversion.
- 2. Paste or upload content and decide whether you want to encode or decode it.
- 3. Copy, swap, preview, or download the output once the browser finishes processing it.
FAQ
Is Base64 the same as encryption?
No. Base64 is encoding, not encryption. Anyone can decode it instantly.
Can I encode images to Base64?
Yes. Use the Image/File tab to upload and convert supported image files directly in your browser.
What is URL-safe Base64?
It is a variant that replaces `+` and `/` with `-` and `_` so the output works more safely inside URLs and filenames.