Base64 and URL Encoder Decoder
Encode or decode text using Base64 or URL encoding. Free to use, no signup required for occasional use.
What is the Text Encoder/Decoder?
The Text Encoder/Decoder is a free online tool that converts text between plain text and two common encoding formats: Base64 and URL encoding. Base64 encoding transforms text (or binary data) into an ASCII string representation, commonly used when embedding data in JSON payloads, email attachments, authentication tokens, or data URIs where raw binary or special characters aren't safely supported. URL encoding (also called percent-encoding) converts characters that aren't valid in a URL — such as spaces, ampersands, or non-English characters — into a percent-sign format so they can be safely included in a web address or query string. Developers, QA testers, and anyone working with APIs, web forms, or data pipelines frequently need to quickly encode a string before sending it, or decode a string they've received to see its original, human-readable form. Doing this manually or writing a one-off script every time is inefficient for a quick check; this tool provides an instant, browser-based way to toggle between encoding and decoding for both formats without needing a code editor or terminal. It's especially useful for debugging API requests, inspecting query parameters, preparing Base64 strings for embedding images or files in HTML/CSS, or simply understanding what an encoded string actually contains before using it in your own project.
How to use it
To use the Text Encoder/Decoder, first select which encoding type you want to work with — Base64 or URL encoding — using the toggle at the top of the tool. Next, choose whether you want to Encode (convert plain text into the encoded format) or Decode (convert an encoded string back into plain text). Paste or type your input into the text box: for encoding, enter your plain text; for decoding, paste the Base64 or URL-encoded string you want to reveal. Click the 'Convert' button, and the result will appear instantly in the output box below. You can then copy the result using the copy button and use it directly in your code, API request, configuration file, or wherever you need the encoded or decoded value. If you need to switch between Base64 and URL encoding, or between encode and decode mode, simply toggle the relevant option and click 'Convert' again — your previous input remains in place so you can quickly compare how the same text behaves under different encoding schemes.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Base64 and URL encoding?
Base64 converts text or binary data into an ASCII string often used for data transport, while URL encoding converts unsafe characters into a percent-encoded format specifically for use inside URLs.
Can I decode a Base64 string back into readable text?
Yes, switch the tool to Decode mode, paste your Base64 string, and it will convert it back to its original plain text.
Is this tool safe to use for sensitive data like passwords or tokens?
Base64 and URL encoding are not encryption and don't provide security; anyone can decode them. Avoid using this tool for genuinely sensitive secrets.
Can I encode special characters and non-English text?
Yes, both Base64 and URL encoding correctly handle special characters, symbols, and non-English text.