Base Encoder & Decoder

Decode multiple encoded strings into UTF-8 text and encode plain text into Base64, Base64URL, Base32, Hex, or Binary.

Processed 100% locally in your browser

1. Base Decoders (1)

Multi-Decoder Tip: Click + Add Decoder below to create parallel decoders for comparing Base64, Hex, Base32, or Binary payloads side-by-side.

Decoder #1

Encoded Input (BASE64)0 chars

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Decoded Output (UTF-8 Plain Text)0 chars

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2. Base Encoder

Plain Text Input (UTF-8)0 chars

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Encoded Output (BASE64)0 chars

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Technical Documentation & Reference

Complete Guide to Base64, Base32, Hex, and Binary Encodings

Learn how binary-to-text encoding algorithms work under RFC 4648, why URL-safe encoding prevents broken query parameters, and how to safely encode UTF-8 text.

Base64 is a group of binary-to-text encoding schemes that represent binary data in an ASCII string format, defined in RFC 4648. By translating 8-bit bytes into a 64-character alphabet (consisting of A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, and /, with = for padding), Base64 ensures that binary files, credentials, and images can be safely transmitted across text-based network protocols like HTTP and SMTP without data corruption.

However, because standard Base64 characters include + and /, including standard Base64 in URL query parameters or HTTP header cookies can break URL routing. For web applications and JWTs, Base64URL replaces + with - and / with _, omitting padding characters.

Base16 (Hex) vs. Base32 vs. Base64

While Base64 is the most compact (expanding data by ~33%), Hex (Base16) uses a 16-character alphanumeric set (0-9, a-f) common in cryptographic hashes and color hex codes. Base32 uses 32 uppercase characters, making it case-insensitive and ideal for two-factor authentication (TOTP/HOTP) seed keys where human readability and transcription accuracy are vital.

How to Use This Tool

Enter Text or Encoded String

Type or paste your raw text into the input field, or upload an existing file.

Choose Direction & Format

Select whether to Encode to or Decode from Base64, Base64URL, Base32, Hexadecimal, or Binary.

Instant In-Memory Conversion

Conversion happens in real time with full UTF-8 emoji and international character support.

Copy or Download Output

Export the converted string directly to your clipboard or download as a text file.

Key Features & Capabilities

Full UTF-8 Character Support

Accurately encodes and decodes multi-byte UTF-8 characters, emojis, and special international symbols.

Multi-Encoding Suite

Supports Base64, URL-Safe Base64, Base32, Hex (Base16), and raw Binary representations.

Two-Way Bi-Directional Engine

Easily toggle between Encode and Decode modes with automatic input validation.

100% Client-Side Security

Encode passwords, API secrets, and tokens without sending any data over the internet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Base64 encoding?

Base64 is used to encode binary data (such as images, hashes, or encryption keys) into ASCII text characters, ensuring safe transmission over text-only protocols like email (MIME) and web URLs without character corruption.

Why does Base64 increase data size?

Base64 represents 3 bytes (24 bits) of data as 4 printable ASCII characters (each carrying 6 bits). This creates an overhead of approximately 33% compared to the original binary data.

What is the difference between Base64 and Base64URL?

Standard Base64 uses "+" and "/" which have special reserved meanings in URLs and file systems. Base64URL replaces "+" with "-" and "/" with "_", and typically omits the "=" padding, making it safe for URLs and JSON Web Tokens.

Is Base64 an encryption algorithm?

No. Base64 is an encoding scheme, not encryption. It provides zero confidentiality or security; anyone can decode a Base64 string instantly without a key.

Privacy & Security Guarantee

All data processing, AST syntax repairs, and cryptographic operations happen 100% locally inside your browser using native JavaScript and WebAssembly. No inputs, keys, or file payloads are ever transmitted to or stored on remote servers.