Base64 Image Encoder
Convert images to Base64 data URIs. Drag-and-drop or browse to encode PNG, JPEG, GIF, SVG, and WebP files.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base64 image encoding?
Base64 image encoding converts binary image data into an ASCII text string. The resulting data URI can be embedded directly in HTML or CSS, eliminating the need for a separate HTTP request to load the image.
Which image formats are supported?
This tool supports all common web image formats including PNG, JPEG, GIF, SVG, and WebP. The MIME type is automatically detected from the file.
Why is the Base64 string larger than the original file?
Base64 encoding increases size by approximately 33% because it represents every 3 bytes of binary data as 4 ASCII characters. This trade-off is accepted when the convenience of inline embedding outweighs the size overhead.
When should I use Base64 images?
Base64 images are ideal for small icons, thumbnails, or UI elements (under ~10 KB) where eliminating an extra HTTP request improves performance. For larger images, serving them as separate files with proper caching is usually more efficient.
Can I use the Base64 output in CSS?
Yes. Copy the full data URI and use it as a background-image value: background-image: url('data:image/png;base64,...'). This works in all modern browsers.