Image to Base64

Convert any image to Base64 encoded string — ready for CSS backgrounds, HTML src attributes, and JSON APIs.

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Drop image here or click to select
Supports PNG, JPG, GIF, WebP, SVG — all processed locally in your browser

About Image to Base64

Base64 encoding converts binary data (like images) into a string of ASCII characters that can be safely embedded in text-based formats like HTML, CSS, JSON, and XML. A Base64-encoded image can be used directly as the src of an img tag or a CSS background-image, eliminating an HTTP request. This reduces page load requests — useful for small icons, logos, and inline images in email templates.

Base64 encoding increases file size by approximately 33% (3 bytes become 4 characters). For small images (<4KB), the single-request advantage typically outweighs the size increase. For larger images, a separate HTTP request with proper caching is more efficient. SVG images can often be inlined as raw SVG in HTML without Base64 encoding.

FAQ

When should I use Base64 images?
Good use cases: small icons and sprites (<4KB), images used in email templates (where external resources may be blocked), data URIs for CSS content property, and when you need a self-contained HTML document. Avoid for large images — the 33% size increase and loss of caching make it inefficient.
Does this tool upload my image to a server?
No. The conversion happens entirely in your browser using the FileReader API. Your image never leaves your computer. This makes it safe for confidential images and logos.