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Base64 Encoder & Decoder

Encode or decode Base64 text instantly.

✓ Verified 2026 📅 Updated: ⚡ Instant Client-Side 🔒 Zero Tracking
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About Base64 Encoder & Decoder

Encode any text (or decode Base64 back to UTF-8) with a single click.

How Base64 encoding works

Base64 represents binary data with 64 printable ASCII characters: uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, plus and slash. Every 3 input bytes become 4 output characters, so encoded output is roughly one-third larger than the input. A single or double equals sign pads the end when the input length is not a multiple of three.

When to use Base64

Base64 is designed for transport, not security: embedding images in CSS or data URIs, sending binary attachments through text-only email (MIME), and storing tokens or keys in JSON and URLs. Anyone can decode it, so never treat Base64 as encryption.

📐 Methodology & Reference Accuracy: Calculations, formulas, and conversions execute locally in your web browser. Output models are benchmarked against official reference standards and updated for 2026.

🔒 This tool runs entirely in your browser. Nothing is uploaded or stored.

Base64 Encoder – free online converters
Base64 Encoder & Decoder – free online converters

Background reading: Base64 Encoder on Wikipedia. More: all converters.

Frequently Asked Questions about Base64 Encoder & Decoder

Is Base64 encryption?

No. Base64 is an encoding that anyone can reverse instantly. It hides nothing, so never use it for passwords or secrets.

Why does encoded output end with equals signs?

The equals signs are padding. Base64 works in 3-byte groups, so inputs whose length is not a multiple of three get one or two padding characters to fill the final 4-character block.

Why is Base64 output larger than my input?

Encoding 3 bytes into 4 characters adds about 33 percent overhead. For large files, that size cost matters, so prefer raw binary transfer when possible.

Does this tool handle Unicode text?

Yes. Text is encoded as UTF-8 bytes first, so emoji and non-Latin scripts round-trip correctly back to the original characters.

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