Base64 turns binary or special-character data into a safe string of letters, numbers and a couple of symbols, which is why it shows up in data URLs, email formats, tokens and API payloads. This tool works in both directions: encode any text into Base64, or paste a Base64 string and decode it back into the original text.
Unicode Done Properly
The classic trap with browser Base64 is non-English text: naive encoders break on accents, Arabic or Urdu script, Chinese characters and emoji. This tool converts text through its UTF-8 bytes before encoding, and reverses the process on decode, so international text and symbols round-trip correctly. If a decode fails, the input was not valid Base64, and the tool says so plainly instead of producing garbage.
How to Encode or Decode Base64
- Type or paste your content into the input box.
- Choose encode to turn text into Base64, or decode for the reverse.
- Read the converted result in the output box.
- Copy it with one click, or swap the boxes to convert back.
- Use the clear button to start over with something else.
Where Base64 Shows Up
- Embedding small images and fonts as data URLs in CSS.
- Sending binary-safe payloads through JSON APIs.
- Inspecting tokens, headers and encoded configuration values.
- Moving text through systems that mangle special characters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Base64 a form of encryption?
No. Base64 is an encoding, not protection — anyone can decode it instantly. Never use it to hide passwords or secrets.
Why is the encoded text longer than the original?
Base64 represents three bytes with four characters, so output is roughly a third larger. That overhead is the price of safe transport.
Can it encode files like images?
This tool is for text. For images, use a data URL generator in your development tools or an image-specific converter.