Base64 Encoder/Decoder — Free Online Tool
Encode & decode Base64 text and files — UTF-8 safe. · No signup · Works on mobile
100% private: your data is processed in your browser. Nothing is uploaded to our servers.
How to use the base64 encoder/decoder
-
1
Choose mode: Encode or Decode (or drop a file for file-to-Base64).
-
2
Paste your text or Base64 string.
-
3
The result appears instantly — copy it or download as a file.
What does this tool do?
This free Base64 tool encodes text or files to Base64 and decodes Base64 back to readable text — with proper UTF-8 handling so emoji, accents, and non-Latin scripts survive the round trip. You can also encode images and small files into data-URI strings for embedding.
How does the base64 encoder/decoder work?
Text is first encoded to UTF-8 bytes with TextEncoder, then converted to Base64 — avoiding the classic btoa() bug that corrupts non-ASCII characters. Files are read as binary and encoded with an optional data:mime;base64, prefix ready for CSS or HTML embedding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base64 actually used for?
Base64 represents binary data using 64 safe ASCII characters, letting binary travel through text-only channels: email attachments (MIME), data URIs for embedding images in CSS/HTML, JSON payloads containing files, HTTP Basic auth headers, and JWT tokens. It adds ~33% size overhead.
Is Base64 encryption?
No — this is a critical security point. Base64 is encoding, not encryption: anyone can decode it instantly with tools like this one. Never use Base64 to "hide" passwords or secrets. For confidentiality you need real encryption like AES; Base64 only makes binary data text-safe.
Is the Base64 encoder really free?
Yes — 100% free with no hidden charges, trial limits, or premium tiers for core features. No account or email needed. The site is supported by non-intrusive display ads, which keeps every tool free for everyone.
Are my files private when using the Base64 encoder?
Completely. The Base64 encoder processes everything locally in your browser — your files are never uploaded to any server. When you close the tab, everything is gone. This makes it safe for confidential documents, client work, and personal photos.
Does the Base64 encoder work on mobile phones?
Yes. It's built mobile-first and works on any modern phone browser — iPhone (Safari) and Android (Chrome) included. You can pick files straight from your camera roll and download results directly to your device.
Do I need to install any software to use the Base64 encoder?
No. The Base64 encoder runs entirely in your web browser — no downloads, extensions, or signup. Open the page, use the tool, download your result. It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, and Android.