🧰Locly

Convert Image to Base64 (No Upload)

Convert images to Base64 strings locally in your browser, no upload required

πŸ–ΌοΈ

or drag and drop an image here

Supports: JPG, PNG, GIF, WebP, SVG

About This Tool

Base64 encoding converts binary image data into ASCII text, allowing images to be embedded directly in HTML, CSS, or JSON without separate file requests. This tool converts images to Base64 entirely in your browser - your images are never uploaded to any server. The optional Data URI format includes the MIME type prefix needed for direct embedding in web pages.

How to Use

  1. Click 'Select Image' or drag and drop an image file
  2. The image is processed locally and converted to Base64
  3. Toggle 'Include Data URI prefix' for HTML/CSS embedding format
  4. View file information including dimensions and sizes
  5. Click 'Copy' to copy the Base64 string to clipboard

Common Use Cases

  • Web development: Embed small images directly in HTML or CSS
  • Email templates: Include images that display without external hosting
  • API integration: Send images as Base64 strings in JSON payloads
  • Offline applications: Store images as text in local storage
  • Documentation: Embed screenshots in markdown or data files

FAQ

Q1: What's the difference between Base64 and Data URI?

Base64 is just the encoded string. Data URI adds a prefix like 'data:image/png;base64,' that tells browsers how to interpret the data. Use Data URI format for embedding in HTML/CSS.

Q2: Why is the Base64 output larger than the original file?

Base64 encoding increases size by approximately 33% because it converts binary data (8 bits) to ASCII text (6 bits per character). This trade-off enables text-based transmission of binary data.

Q3: What image size is recommended for Base64 embedding?

Base64 is best for small images (icons, logos) under 10KB. Larger images significantly increase HTML/CSS file size and aren't cached separately by browsers. For larger images, use regular file URLs.

Q4: Are my images uploaded to a server?

No. All processing uses the browser's FileReader API to read and convert images locally. Your images never leave your device, making this tool safe for private or sensitive images.

Q5: Which image formats are supported?

This tool supports common web formats: JPEG, PNG, GIF, WebP, and SVG. The output includes the correct MIME type in the Data URI prefix for proper browser rendering.

Related Tools