How do I convert an image to Base64?

Simply drag and drop your image onto our converter or click to browse and select a file. The tool instantly generates the Base64 string, Data URI (with MIME type prefix), CSS background-image code, and HTML img tag. All processing happens locally in your browser - no uploads to any server.

What image formats are supported for Base64 conversion?

Our converter supports all major image formats including PNG, JPEG/JPG, GIF, SVG, WebP, BMP, ICO, and TIFF. The tool automatically detects the image MIME type and generates the correct Data URI prefix (e.g., data:image/png;base64, or data:image/svg+xml;base64,).

What is the difference between Base64 and Data URI?

Raw Base64 is just the encoded string of characters. A Data URI includes the MIME type prefix (e.g., 'data:image/png;base64,') followed by the Base64 string. Data URIs are what browsers need to render embedded images. Our tool provides both formats so you can choose based on your use case.

Does Base64 encoding increase file size?

Yes, Base64 encoding increases the data size by approximately 33% compared to binary. This is because Base64 uses 6 bits per character while the original binary uses 8 bits per byte. For small images (under 10KB), this overhead is negligible compared to the HTTP request savings. For larger images, separate files are usually more efficient.

When should I use Base64 images vs regular image files?

Use Base64 for: small icons/logos under 10KB, critical above-the-fold images to eliminate render-blocking requests, email templates, single-file HTML documents, and API payloads. Use regular image files for: larger images, images that change frequently, pages with many images, and when you need browser caching benefits.

Is my image data secure when using this converter?

Absolutely. This tool processes images entirely in your browser using the FileReader API. No image data is ever uploaded to any server or transmitted over the network. You can verify this by using the tool while offline or monitoring network requests in your browser's developer tools.

How do I use Base64 images in CSS background-image?

Use the CSS output format provided by our tool. It generates the complete CSS property: background-image: url('data:image/png;base64,...'). Simply copy and paste this into your CSS stylesheet or inline styles. This embeds the image directly in your CSS file, eliminating an additional HTTP request.

image-base64

Image to Base64 Converter

Convert images to Base64 encoded strings instantly. Get Data URI, CSS background-image code, HTML img tags, or raw Base64. Process images entirely in your browser with support for PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG, and WebP formats.

Drop images here

or click to browse. Supports PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG, WebP

No images uploaded yet. Drop or select images to convert them to Base64.

How to Use This Image to Base64 Converter

Upload Image

Drag and drop your image onto the upload area, or click to browse and select a file from your device. Supports PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG, and WebP.

Instant Conversion

The tool automatically converts your image to Base64 instantly. No waiting, no server uploads - everything processes locally in your browser.

Choose Output Format

Select your preferred output: raw Base64 string, Data URI with MIME type, CSS background-image property, or complete HTML img tag.

Copy and Use

Click the copy button to copy your Base64 output to clipboard. Paste it directly into your HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or API payload.

Base64 Image Encoding FAQ

Base64 is an encoding scheme that converts binary image data into ASCII text. This allows images to be embedded directly in HTML, CSS, or JSON without separate file requests. It's useful for reducing HTTP requests, embedding small icons, sending images via APIs, and including images in email templates where external files may be blocked.

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About This Image to Base64 Converter

Our free online image to Base64 converter transforms image files into Base64 encoded strings that can be embedded directly in your code. This tool is essential for web developers who want to reduce HTTP requests by inlining small images, create self-contained HTML files, or work with APIs that require Base64 encoded image data.

Unlike other converters, this tool runs entirely in your browser using the JavaScript FileReader API. Your images are never uploaded to any server, ensuring complete privacy and security. The conversion happens instantly, making it perfect for quick tasks during development. Whether you need to convert PNG icons for CSS sprites, embed SVG graphics in HTML, or prepare images for JSON API payloads, this Base64 encoder handles it all with support for all major image formats.