Input
Output
SGVsbG8sIFdvcmxkISBUaGlzIGlzIGEgQmFzZTY0IGVuY29kaW5nIGV4YW1wbGUu
Base64 Encoder/Decoder
EncodingEncode text to Base64 or decode Base64 back to text in real time. Useful for data URIs, API tokens, and more.
What is Base64 encoding?
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data using a set of 64 printable ASCII characters. It is commonly used to embed images directly in HTML or CSS via data URIs, transmit binary data through text-only channels like email or JSON APIs, and encode authentication credentials in HTTP Basic Auth headers.
Common use cases
Developers use Base64 encoding to inline small images and fonts in stylesheets to reduce HTTP requests, encode JWT token payloads for inspection, pass binary file content through REST APIs that only accept text, and store small assets in localStorage or configuration files. Decoding is equally useful when you need to inspect an encoded API token or extract embedded image data.
How it works
Base64 takes every 3 bytes of input and maps them to 4 printable characters from the set A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, and /. If the input length is not a multiple of 3, padding characters (=) are appended. This means Base64-encoded output is roughly 33% larger than the original binary data, which is why it is best suited for small payloads rather than large files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Base64 encoding the same as encryption?
No. Base64 is an encoding scheme, not encryption. It does not provide any security — anyone can decode a Base64 string. Use it for data transport, not for hiding sensitive information.
Why is Base64 output larger than the original?
Base64 converts 3 bytes of binary data into 4 ASCII characters, resulting in roughly 33% size increase. This trade-off is acceptable for small payloads but makes Base64 unsuitable for large files.
Can I encode images with this tool?
This tool encodes text to Base64. For image-to-Base64 conversion, paste the raw binary content or use a dedicated image-to-data-URI converter.
Part of 23+ free developer tools from BigDevSoon
Want to create your own tool?
Try our free Demo editor or start a 7-day trial with all features included.
No signup needed for demo editor
More Developer Tools
URL Encoder/Decoder
Encode and decode URLs and query strings in real time. Supports encodeURIComponent and encodeURI modes, bulk encoding, and a built-in URL parser.
JSON Formatter
Format, validate, and minify JSON data with line numbers. Real-time validation as you type.
Color Converter
Convert colors between HEX, RGB, and HSL formats. Preview colors in real-time.