What is Base64 encoding?

Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data using 64 ASCII characters. It is commonly used to embed images in HTML/CSS, transmit data in URLs, and encode email attachments.

Does this tool support Unicode text?

Yes. The tool handles Unicode (UTF-8) text correctly, including special characters, emojis, and non-Latin scripts like Chinese, Arabic, and Cyrillic.

Is there a size limit for encoding?

There is no hard limit set by PDFFlare. However, since encoding happens in your browser, very large inputs may slow down depending on your device's memory and processing power.

Yes. All encoding and decoding happens in your browser. Your data is never sent to any server — it stays entirely on your device.

Can I decode Base64-encoded images?

This tool decodes Base64 strings to text. For Base64-encoded binary data like images, the decoded output may contain non-printable characters. Use a dedicated image decoder for those cases.

What is Base64 used for?

Base64 is widely used for embedding images in HTML and CSS via data URIs, encoding email attachments (MIME), transmitting binary data inside JSON or XML payloads, and encoding credentials for HTTP Basic Authentication headers.

Is there a size limit for Base64 input?

There is no hard limit imposed by the Base64 standard itself. In practice, the limit depends on your browser’s available memory. Most modern browsers handle several megabytes of text without issue.

Is Base64 encoding the same as encryption?

No. Base64 is an encoding scheme, not encryption. It converts data into a text-safe format but does not protect it — anyone can decode a Base64 string instantly. Never use Base64 as a security measure for sensitive data.

Can I encode files with this tool?

This tool currently supports text-to-Base64 encoding only. File encoding (images, PDFs, etc.) is not yet available but may be added in a future update.

Base64 Encode & Decode Online — Free

Encode and decode Base64 strings online for free. Instant conversion with copy-to-clipboard support.

Encode plain text to Base64 or decode Base64 strings back to readable text — instantly, right in your browser. Base64 encoding is a staple of modern web development, used to embed images in HTML and CSS via data URIs, encode credentials for API authentication headers, and safely transmit binary data inside JSON payloads.

This tool runs entirely client-side, so your data never leaves your device. Paste your input, click Encode or Decode, and copy the result. Need to percent-encode a URL string instead? Try the URL Encode & Decode tool.

Input

Output

How to Base64 Encode & Decode

Enter your text or Base64 string
Type or paste the text you want to encode, or a Base64 string you want to decode, into the input area.
Click Encode or Decode
Click 'Encode' to convert plain text to Base64, or 'Decode' to convert a Base64 string back to readable text.
Copy the result
Click 'Copy Output' to copy the converted result to your clipboard for use in your code or project.

Common Use Cases

Inline Images in CSS/HTML
Encode small images as Base64 data URIs to embed them directly in stylesheets or HTML, eliminating extra HTTP requests.
Decode API Response Payloads
Many APIs return Base64-encoded data in their responses. Decode those payloads to inspect the original content quickly.
HTTP Basic Auth Headers
Encode username:password strings for HTTP Basic Authentication headers used in REST API calls and server configurations.
Embed Binary Data in JSON
JSON doesn't support raw binary. Base64-encode binary content so it can be safely embedded in JSON fields for APIs and configs.

Why Use PDFFlare Base64 Encoder?

Instant Conversion

Encode or decode Base64 strings in milliseconds. No loading screens — results appear immediately.

Unicode Support

Full UTF-8 support means special characters, emojis, and non-Latin scripts encode and decode correctly.

One-Click Copy

Copy the encoded or decoded result to your clipboard with a single click. Ready to paste into your code.

100% Client-Side

All processing happens in your browser. Your data never leaves your device — safe for sensitive content.

Frequently Asked Questions About Base64 Encoding

JSON Formatter

Format and validate JSON

Hash Generator

MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256 hashes

URL Encode/Decode

Encode and decode URLs

Color Converter

Convert HEX, RGB, HSL colors

QR Code Generator

Generate QR codes from text or URLs

Markdown to HTML

Convert Markdown to HTML

How to Base64 Encode & Decode

Enter your text or Base64 string

Click Encode or Decode

Copy the result