Base64 File Encoder
Convert any file to Base64 format instantly. Supports all file types including documents, archives, executables, and binary files. Perfect for embedding files in JSON, APIs, or data URIs.
Selected:
Base64 Output
File Name:
File Type:
Original Size:
Base64 Length: characters
Size Increase: %
What is Base64 File Encoding?
Base64 file encoding converts any file into a text string using Base64 format. This allows binary files to be transmitted through text-based systems like JSON APIs, email, or embedded in HTML and CSS. The encoding process converts raw file bytes into ASCII characters that are safe for text transmission.
What Are the Common Use Cases for Base64 File Encoding?
API Data Transmission: Send files through JSON APIs by encoding them as Base64 strings in request/response payloads.
Email Attachments: Embed small files directly in email messages using MIME Base64 encoding.
Data URIs: Create data URIs for embedding files in HTML, CSS, or JavaScript without external file references.
Database Storage: Store small files directly in database text fields using Base64 encoding.
Configuration Files: Embed binary data or files in configuration files that only support text format.
What File Types Does This Encoder Support?
This tool supports all file types including:
Documents: PDF, DOC, DOCX, XLS, XLSX, PPT, PPTX, TXT, RTF
Archives: ZIP, RAR, 7Z, TAR, GZ
Executables: EXE, DLL, SO, APP
Media: MP3, MP4, AVI, MOV, WAV (Note: Use image-specific tools for images)
Data: JSON, XML, CSV, SQL, DB
What Are the File Size Limits for Base64 Encoding?
Size Increase: Base64 encoding increases file size by approximately 33%. A 1MB file becomes ~1.33MB when encoded.
Browser Limitations: Very large files (over 50MB) may cause browser performance issues or memory errors. For large files, consider splitting them or using server-side encoding.
Recommended Use: This tool works best for files under 10MB. For larger files, consider using command-line tools or server-side encoding.
Is This File Encoder Private and Secure?
All files are processed locally in your browser using the JavaScript File API. Zero file data is sent to external servers. Encoding runs entirely on your device, ensuring complete privacy for sensitive documents, credentials, and confidential files. For encoding images specifically, use the Base64 image encoder. To validate the output, use the Base64 validator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What file types can I convert to Base64?
This encoder supports all file types — documents (PDF, DOC), images (PNG, JPEG), archives (ZIP, TAR), executables, media files, and any other binary or text file your browser can read.
Is there a file size limit?
Since processing happens in your browser, the limit depends on your device's available memory. Files up to 50MB typically work well. For very large files, consider splitting them or using a command-line tool.
How do I decode a Base64 file back?
Use our Base64 File Decoder to convert Base64 strings back to downloadable files. For images specifically, try the Image Decoder or Base64 to PNG Converter.