Free Online Tool

Image to Base64 Converter

Convert PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG images to Base64 strings instantly. Perfect for embedding images in CSS, HTML, or JSON files.

Lightning Fast
100% Secure
Works Everywhere

What do you want to encode?

Drop images here or click to upload

PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG, WebP (Max 50MB)

Advanced Options

How to Convert Image to Base64 String: Complete Developer Guide

What is Base64 Encoding?

Base64 is a method of encoding binary data (like images or files) into ASCII text format using 64 printable characters. This encoding allows you to embed binary data directly in text-based formats like HTML, CSS, JSON, or XML.

The encoded string is approximately 33% larger than the original binary data due to the encoding overhead, but it ensures data integrity when transmitted through text-only channels.

When to Use Base64 for Images

  • Email Signatures: Embed logos directly in HTML emails to ensure they display correctly
  • CSS Background Images: Include small icons or patterns without additional HTTP requests
  • API Payloads: Send images as part of JSON data in REST APIs
  • Single File Applications: Bundle everything in one HTML file for offline use
  • Data URLs in Canvas: Draw images on HTML5 canvas elements
  • MongoDB/NoSQL Storage: Store small images directly in document databases

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Convert PNG to Base64

  1. Step 1: Click on the "Image" button in the encoder section
  2. Step 2: Drag and drop your PNG file or click to browse
  3. Step 3: Check "Add Data URI prefix" if you need the complete data URL
  4. Step 4: Click "Encode" and your Base64 string will be generated instantly
  5. Step 5: Copy the result or download it as a text file

How to Convert Image to Base64

Converting images to Base64 allows you to embed images directly in HTML, CSS, or JSON without external file references. This is useful for emails, CSS sprites, or reducing HTTP requests.

Why Convert Images to Base64?

  • Reduce HTTP requests: Embed small images directly in CSS or HTML
  • Email templates: Embed images in HTML emails without hosting
  • API responses: Include images in JSON responses
  • No external dependencies: Self-contained HTML files
  • CSS backgrounds: Inline small icons and logos

Supported Image Formats

Raster Images

  • ✅ PNG - Best for logos
  • ✅ JPG/JPEG - Photos
  • ✅ GIF - Animations
  • ✅ WebP - Modern format

Vector Images

  • ✅ SVG - Scalable graphics
  • ✅ ICO - Icons
  • ✅ BMP - Bitmap
  • ✅ TIFF - High quality

How to Use in CSS

.logo {
  background-image: url('data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgo...');
  width: 100px;
  height: 50px;
}

How to Use in HTML

<img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgo..." alt="Logo" />

Best Practices

  • File size: Only use Base64 for small images (<10KB)
  • Performance: Large Base64 images increase HTML/CSS file size
  • Caching: Base64 images can't be cached separately
  • Compression: Optimize images before converting

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to convert images to Base64?

Yes! Our tool processes images entirely in your browser. Your images never leave your device or get uploaded to any server.

What's the maximum image size?

You can convert images up to 50MB, but we recommend keeping images under 10KB for optimal performance when embedding.

Can I convert multiple images at once?

Yes! Switch to the "Batch" tab to convert multiple images in one go.