Base64 Encoder & Decoder

Professional Base64 encoder and decoder for developers. Convert text, images, and files to Base64 strings with preview, batch processing, and URL-safe encoding support.

Base64 Tools

Choose your operation and input type

Operation

Input Type

Encoding Type

Actions

Text Processing

Text Input

Base64 Output

Key Features

Text and file encoding/decoding support

Image preview for uploaded files

URL-safe Base64 encoding option

Batch processing for multiple files

Drag and drop file upload

Copy to clipboard and download results

Understanding Base64

Character Set: Uses 64 characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /) plus padding (=)

Encoding Process: Converts 3 bytes (24 bits) into 4 Base64 characters

URL-Safe Variant: Replaces + with -, / with _, and removes padding

Size Increase: Encoded data is approximately 33% larger than original

Tips & Strategies

Web Development: Embed images in CSS/HTML using data URLs for faster loading

API Authentication: Use Base64 for HTTP Basic Auth header encoding

File Storage: Store binary data in JSON/XML configuration files

Email Attachments: Encode files for safe transmission in text-based systems

URL Safety: Use URL-safe encoding for query parameters and file names

How to Use the Base64 Encoder/Decoder

Follow these simple steps to encode or decode Base64 data

Step-by-Step Instructions

Choose encoding mode (Encode or Decode) using the toggle buttons

Paste your text or upload a file (for encoding) in the input area

Click the process button to encode or decode your data

Copy the result or download it as a text file

Pro Tips

🔄

Use the swap button to quickly switch between encode/decode modes

📁

Upload files directly for encoding - supports images, documents, and more

⚠️

Base64 is encoding, not encryption - don't use for sensitive data

💾

Large files will increase in size by ~33% when encoded

🚀

Perfect for data URLs, email attachments, and API integration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Base64 encoding?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data as ASCII strings using 64 characters. It's commonly used for transmitting data over text-based protocols.

What's the difference between standard and URL-safe Base64?

URL-safe Base64 replaces '+' with '-', '/' with '_', and removes padding '=' characters. This makes the encoded string safe to use in URLs and filenames without conflicts.

Is my data safe when using this tool?

Yes, absolutely. All encoding and decoding happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your files and data never leave your device or get sent to any server.

Can I encode large files?

Yes, but performance depends on your browser and device memory. Very large files (>50MB) may slow down the browser. Consider breaking large files into smaller chunks if needed.

Why does Base64 make files larger?

Base64 encoding increases file size by approximately 33% because it uses 4 characters to represent every 3 bytes of original data. This is the trade-off for text-safe representation.

What file types can I encode?

You can encode any file type - images, documents, videos, executables, etc. The tool reads files as binary data and converts them to Base64 regardless of format.

How do I use Base64 in web development?

Common uses include data URLs for embedding images in CSS/HTML, storing binary data in JSON, and creating HTTP Basic Auth headers. Use the format: data:image/png;base64,[encoded-data]

Can I decode corrupted Base64 strings?

The tool will show an error for invalid Base64 strings. Common issues include missing padding, invalid characters, or incorrect length. Ensure the string contains only valid Base64 characters.