Drop an image here or click to select
Supports PNG, JPG, GIF, WebP, SVG, BMP
Files are processed locally — nothing is uploaded
What Is Base64 Image Encoding?
Base64 encoding converts binary image data into a text string using 64 printable ASCII characters. This allows images to be embedded directly inside HTML, CSS, or JSON without requiring a separate HTTP request for the image file.
A Base64 data URL looks like: data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgo... — this can be used anywhere a URL is accepted.
Key Features
- Converts any browser-supported image to Base64 instantly
- 4 output formats: Raw Base64, Data URL, HTML img tag, CSS background
- Shows original file size vs. encoded size (Base64 is ~33% larger)
- Drag & drop or click to select — supports all common image formats
- 100% private: image data never leaves your browser
Common Use Cases
- Embedding small icons or favicons directly in CSS or HTML
- Sending images in API payloads (JSON body) without file upload
- Embedding images in HTML email templates
- Creating self-contained HTML files with no external dependencies
- Quick image data inspection for debugging
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my image uploaded to a server?
No. The image is read directly in your browser using the FileReader API. It never leaves your device.
What image formats are supported?
PNG, JPEG, GIF, WebP, SVG, BMP, and any image format your browser supports.
What is Base64 encoding used for?
Base64 is used to embed images directly in HTML, CSS, or JSON without a separate file request. Common in email templates, CSS backgrounds, favicon embedding, and API payloads.
Does Base64 make the file larger?
Yes. Base64 encoding increases file size by approximately 33% because it uses only printable ASCII characters to represent binary data. This tool shows both original and encoded sizes.