What is Base64 encoding?

Base64 encoding converts binary data into a text format using 64 printable ASCII characters, making it safe to transmit over text-only channels like email or JSON APIs.

When should I use Base64 encoding?

Use Base64 when you need to embed binary data (images, PDFs, files) inside text-based formats like JSON, XML, HTML, or email. It is commonly used for embedding images in CSS/HTML as data URIs.

Does Base64 encoding compress data?

No. Base64 encoding increases data size by approximately 33%. It is an encoding scheme, not a compression algorithm.

Is Base64 encoding the same as encryption?

No. Base64 is an encoding format, not encryption. It can be decoded by anyone without a key. Do not use Base64 to secure sensitive data.

Free Base64 Encoder & Decoder Tools

Base64 Encoding Tools

T Encode Text Text → Base64 IMG Encode Image Image → Base64 PDF Encode PDF PDF → Base64 CSV Encode CSV CSV → Base64

Base64 Decoding Tools

T Decode Text Base64 → Text IMG Decode Image Base64 → Image PDF Decode PDF Base64 → PDF

What is Base64?

Base64 is an encoding scheme that converts binary data into a string of ASCII characters. It uses 64 printable characters (A–Z, a–z, 0–9, +, /) to represent binary data, making it safe for transmission over text-only channels.

Base64 is widely used to embed images directly in HTML or CSS as data URIs, attach files in email (MIME), transmit binary data in JSON or XML APIs, and store binary content in databases that only support text.

Common Use Cases

Embedding images in HTML: <img src="data:image/png;base64,...">
Sending binary files in JSON REST APIs
Encoding email attachments (MIME encoding)
Storing binary data in text-based configuration files
Transmitting cryptographic keys and certificates

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Base64 compress my files?

No. Base64 encoding increases file size by approximately 33%. It is purely an encoding scheme, not compression.

Is Base64 secure / encrypted?

No. Base64 is not encryption. Anyone can decode Base64 data without a password or key. Do not use it to protect sensitive information.

Are my files uploaded to ConvertLoom's servers?

No. All Base64 encoding and decoding on ConvertLoom happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your files never leave your device.