Free Online Tool

Text to Base64 Converter

Encode text strings to Base64 or decode Base64 back to text. Perfect for API authentication, data transmission, and encoding special characters.

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100% Secure
Works Everywhere

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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

What is Base64 Encoding?

Base64 is an encoding scheme that converts binary data into ASCII text format. It's commonly used to transmit data over channels that only support text, such as email or HTTP headers.

Why Use Base64 for Text?

  • API Authentication: Encode credentials for Basic Auth headers
  • Data URLs: Embed text data in URLs safely
  • Email encoding: Send special characters in email headers
  • JSON transmission: Encode binary data in JSON
  • Database storage: Store binary data as text

Common Use Cases

1. Basic Authentication

// Encode username:password
const credentials = btoa("username:password");
// Result: dXNlcm5hbWU6cGFzc3dvcmQ=

// Use in HTTP header
Authorization: Basic dXNlcm5hbWU6cGFzc3dvcmQ=

2. Encoding JSON

const data = JSON.stringify({ user: "john", role: "admin" });
const encoded = btoa(data);
// Send encoded data safely

3. URL-Safe Data

const message = "Hello, World!";
const encoded = btoa(message);
// Result: SGVsbG8sIFdvcmxkIQ==

Base64 Character Set

Characters used: A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /
Padding: = (equals sign)
Total characters: 64

Encoding vs Decoding

Encoding (Text → Base64)

Converts plain text into Base64 format. Use this when you need to transmit text data safely.

Example: "Hello" → "SGVsbG8="

Decoding (Base64 → Text)

Converts Base64 back to readable text. Use this to read encoded data.

Example: "SGVsbG8=" → "Hello"

Tips & Best Practices

  • Size increase: Base64 increases data size by ~33%
  • Not encryption: Base64 is encoding, not encryption - it's reversible
  • UTF-8 support: Our tool supports all Unicode characters
  • Padding: Valid Base64 ends with 0, 1, or 2 "=" characters

Related Tools

Image to Base64URL EncoderJSON Formatter

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Base64 encoding secure?

No, Base64 is not encryption. It's simply encoding. Anyone can decode Base64 text. Use proper encryption (like AES) for security.

Why does Base64 increase file size?

Base64 uses 6 bits per character instead of 8 bits, resulting in approximately 33% larger output compared to the original binary data.

Can Base64 handle special characters?

Yes! Our tool supports full UTF-8 encoding, so you can encode any Unicode characters including emojis, Chinese characters, etc.