Base64 Encoder & Decoder
Encode any text or file to Base64, or decode a Base64 string back to its original form. Runs entirely in your browser.
Convert a File to Base64 and Decode Base64 to File
What is Base64?
Base64 is a binary-to-text encoding scheme that represents binary data as an ASCII string. It is used to embed images in CSS, transmit binary data over text-based protocols, and store binary blobs in JSON.
Encoding vs decoding
Encoding converts raw bytes to a Base64 string. Decoding reverses that — it takes a Base64 string and returns the original bytes. This tool handles both directions.
File encoding
Upload any file to convert it to a Base64 data URI. This is useful for embedding small images directly in HTML or CSS without an extra HTTP request.
Why use Base64 online?
Base64 in the browser saves context switching: no CLI install, no fragile one-liners, and instant feedback for teammates who do not live in the terminal. It is ideal for debugging, demos, and quick checks during code review.
Tips for best results
Work with a sample payload first, then paste production data. Keep privacy in mind: prefer local browser processing for secrets, tokens, and customer data. Bookmark this page for faster access next time.
How to use
- To encode text: type or paste text into the input and the Base64 output appears instantly.
- To encode a file: click Choose File, select any file, and the Base64 data URI is generated.
- To decode: paste a Base64 string and click Decode to see the original content.
- Review the output and use Copy to paste into your editor, ticket, or chat.
- Need another utility? Scroll to Related Tools below for Base64 companions on skybin.io.
- For a deeper walkthrough, read the linked Skybin blog article at the bottom of this page.
Online tool vs terminal
| Terminal / CLI | This tool |
|---|---|
| echo -n "hello" | base64 | Paste text or upload a file |
| echo "aGVsbG8=" | base64 -d | Switch encode/decode as needed |
| base64 -i image.png # macOS; flags differ on Linux/Windows | Preview images when decoding image Base64 |
Your files and strings stay in your browser — nothing is uploaded to any server.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Base64 encryption?
- No. Base64 is an encoding scheme, not encryption. It does not protect data — anyone can decode it. Use it only for encoding, not security.
- Why does Base64 increase file size?
- Base64 encodes every 3 bytes as 4 ASCII characters, adding roughly 33% overhead. This is a known trade-off when embedding binary data in text formats.
- Can I encode any file type?
- Yes. Upload any file and this tool will generate its Base64 data URI. Large files produce very long strings — be mindful of size limits in your target context.
- Is my data sent to a server?
- No. All encoding and decoding happens in your browser using the FileReader and atob/btoa APIs.
- Is this tool free to use?
- Yes. All Skybin developer tools are free with no account, API key, or usage limits.
- Does my data get sent to a server?
- No. Processing runs in your browser whenever possible. Sensitive input never leaves your device unless a tool explicitly fetches a URL you provide (e.g. OG Validator).
- Can I use this on mobile?
- Yes. The tools work in modern mobile browsers, though a desktop screen is easier for large JSON or PDF workflows.
- How is this different from desktop apps?
- There is nothing to install or update. Open a bookmarked URL and start working — ideal for quick tasks during development or support calls.
- Are there keyboard shortcuts?
- Most tools support standard paste (Ctrl+V / Cmd+V) and select-all in text areas. Copy buttons provide one-click output.
- Does Skybin store my history?
- No. We do not log tool inputs or outputs. Refreshing the page clears in-memory state unless the tool encodes state in the URL.