File to Base64 Encoder & Decoder

How it works

1. 1

   Add a file or paste Base64

   Drop a file to encode, or paste a Base64 string (or data URI) to decode back into a file.

2. 2

   Get the result

   See the Base64 output or the decoded file. Choose plain Base64 or a full data URI with the right MIME type.

3. 3

   Copy or download

   Copy the string to your clipboard, or download the decoded file ready to use.

Frequently asked questions

What is Base64 and when would I use it?

Base64 is a way to write binary data using only plain text characters. It lets you embed an image or font directly in CSS or HTML, paste a small file into a JSON or config field, or send binary data through a channel that only accepts text.

What is the difference between Base64 and a data URI?

Base64 is just the encoded text. A data URI wraps that text with a prefix like data:image/png;base64, so a browser knows the type and can use it inline as a src. This tool gives you either one.

Does Base64 make the file bigger?

Yes, by roughly a third, because three bytes become four text characters. That is normal and expected. It is the trade-off for representing binary data as plain text, so Base64 suits small files rather than large ones.

Is my file sent to a server?

No. Everything runs locally in your browser. Your file is read and processed on your own device, nothing is uploaded, and nothing is logged or stored.