Base64 Encoder & Decoder

Convert text to Base64 or decode Base64 strings. Handles emoji and accented characters correctly.

Free · Runs in your browser · Your text is never uploaded

Plain text Hello converted to the Base64 string SGVsbG8= and back

What is Base64?

Base64 represents binary data using 64 printable characters (A–Z, a–z, 0–9, + and /). It is used to embed data in text-only formats such as JSON, email (MIME), HTML data URIs and HTTP headers. It is an encoding, not encryption: anyone can decode it, so never use it to hide secrets.

URL-safe Base64

Standard Base64 uses + and /, which have special meaning in URLs. The URL-safe variant replaces them with - and _ and usually drops the = padding. JWTs use this form. The decoder accepts both forms and missing padding.

Text is converted using UTF-8 before encoding, so emoji and non-English letters round-trip correctly (unlike the browser’s plain btoa function, which fails on them).

Popular base64 encoder & decoder presets

Frequently asked questions

Is Base64 encryption?

No. It only changes how data is represented. Anyone can decode it instantly, so it provides no security.

Why does my Base64 end with = signs?

The = characters are padding that makes the length a multiple of four. URL-safe variants often omit them.

Can I decode Base64 images or files here?

This tool shows text. If the decoded data is binary, such as an image, it tells you so rather than showing garbage.

Does it support emoji and accents?

Yes. Text is encoded as UTF-8 first, so any Unicode character works.

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