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Image to Base64 Converter

Convert images to Base64 encoded strings for HTML, CSS, and APIs

Frequently asked questions

What is a Base64 data URI?

A data URI is a string that embeds file content directly into HTML or CSS, formatted as data:[mime-type];base64,[encoded-data]. It lets you use images without separate HTTP requests, which can speed up small-image-heavy pages.

Is my image uploaded to a server?

No. This tool uses the browser's built-in FileReader API entirely client-side. Your image never leaves your device.

Why is the Base64 string 33% larger than the original?

Base64 encoding converts 3 bytes of binary data into 4 ASCII characters, adding roughly 33% overhead. This is a trade-off for text compatibility when you need to embed binary data in HTML, CSS, or JSON.

When should I use Base64 images?

Best for small images (icons, logos under ~5 KB) that are critical for first render, or when building email HTML where external image links may be blocked. For large images, a URL reference is more efficient.