File or Image to Base64 Encoder and Decoder Online Tool

Convert files or images to Base64 format and back with our free online tool. Supports live preview for images (JPG, PNG, etc.) and secure processing for all file types.

Upload File to Encode

Drag & drop files here or click to browse

Supports all file types (max 10MB)

filename.ext
0 KB

Base64 String

Base64 Output

Decoded File Preview

File Type 0 KB
Download File

How to Use This File or Image to Base64 Encoder/Decoder Tool

Encoding Files to Base64

  1. Upload your file using either:
    • Drag and drop into the upload area
    • Click to browse your files
  2. Verify file details (name, size, type)
  3. Click "Encode File to Base64" button
  4. Copy your Base64 result
    • Use the copy button
    • Or standard Ctrl+C/Cmd+C

Decoding Base64 to Files

  1. Paste your Base64 string in the input box. Use the paste button Or standard Ctrl+V/Cmd+V
  2. Click "Decode Base64 to File" button
  3. View decoded file
    • Images show preview automatically
    • Other files display type and size information
  4. Download the file using the download button

Supported File Types

File Type
Preview Support
Max Size
Images (JPG, PNG, GIF, WEBP)
Yes (visual preview)
10MB
PDF Documents
No (thumbnail only)
10MB
Text Files
No (info only)
10MB
Archives (ZIP, RAR)
No (thumbnail only)
10MB
All Other Files
No (info only)
10MB

Key Technical Details

File Encoding Process

  • Binary Conversion: Files are read as binary data
  • Base64 Encoding: Uses standard RFC 4648 encoding
  • MIME Type Detection: Auto-detects file types during decode
  • Size Calculation: Accurately reports original and encoded sizes

Common Use Cases

  • Web Development: Embed small files directly in HTML/CSS
  • APIs: Transfer binary data as text in JSON payloads
  • Data Storage: Store files in text-based databases
  • Email Attachments: Encode files for email transmission

Important Limitations

  • Size Limit: Maximum 10MB file size for encoding/decoding
  • Browser Memory: Very large files may cause browser performance issues
  • Security: Base64 is not encryption - encoded data is easily reversible
  • Privacy: Files are processed in your browser only - never uploaded to our servers

Frequently Asked Questions

Base64 encoding is commonly used when you need to transfer binary data through text-only protocols or systems. Common examples include embedding images directly in HTML/CSS, sending file attachments in JSON APIs, or storing binary data in text-based databases.

All processing happens directly in your browser - your files are never uploaded to any server. However, remember that Base64 is not encryption. Anyone with access to the encoded string can decode it back to the original file.

The tool has a 10MB limit to prevent browser performance issues. Very large Base64 strings can consume significant memory when converted back to binary files. For larger files, consider using specialized desktop software.