Quick Answer
A Base64 encoder turns any text into the Base64 alphabet (A-Z a-z 0-9 + / =) so it can travel through systems that only handle plain ASCII — email attachments, data URIs, and some API payloads. A decoder reverses the process. This tool does both, with correct UTF-8 handling.
What This Tool Does
Choose Encode to convert text to Base64, or Decode to convert Base64 back to text. The encoding is UTF-8 aware: multibyte characters (emoji, CJK, accents) are encoded correctly rather than mangled, and decoding validates the input so garbage Base64 produces a friendly error instead of gibberish.
Key Features
- Two-way — encode and decode in the same tool via a dropdown.
- UTF-8 safe — emoji and accented letters round-trip perfectly.
- Friendly errors — invalid Base64 is rejected with a clear message.
- Instant — results update as you type.
How to Use the Base64 Encoder / Decoder
- Pick Encode to Base64 or Decode from Base64.
- Paste your text or Base64 string.
- Read the result on the right, then Copy or Download.
Use Cases
- Embedding a small image as a
data:URI in HTML or CSS. - Decoding tokens or payloads that you need to inspect quickly.
- Passing binary-ish data through a plain-text channel.
Tips
- Base64 is not encryption — anyone can decode it. Never use it to protect sensitive data.
- Base64 adds about 33% to size; use it only when a channel requires it.
- If decoding fails, check for stray whitespace or line breaks in the input.
Privacy
Encoding and decoding happen locally. Your data never leaves the browser.
Conclusion
Base64 is everywhere — in tokens, emails, and data URIs. Encode and decode it in one click, correctly, for free.