SVG to Base64 Converter
Encode SVG graphics for CSS and data URIs
Input (Text or File)
0 charactersDrop file or click to browse
Max size: 10MB • Any file type supported
Output (Base64)
0 charactersSecure
All processing happens in your browser. No data is sent to servers.
Fast
Live preview with instant encoding and decoding as you type.
Files
Support for images, PDFs, and documents up to 10MB.
What is SVG to Base64?
SVG files are already text-based XML, but base64 encoding wraps them for safe embedding in CSS and data URIs. While URL encoding is often preferred for SVG (it's more readable), base64 ensures compatibility in all contexts where special characters might cause issues.
The result works identically to encoded raster images but preserves SVG's vector advantages: infinite scaling, small file sizes, and CSS styling.
Why Encode SVG?
Encoded SVG eliminates HTTP requests while keeping vector quality. Icons, logos, and decorative graphics scale perfectly without pixelation—critical for high-DPI displays and responsive designs.
For CSS-only components and design systems, encoded SVG icons mean zero external dependencies. Your styles work immediately without separate asset loading.
How It Works
SVG offers two encoding options:
1. Base64: data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0... 2. URL encoded: data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns...
Base64 is more compact but unreadable. URL encoding preserves readability for debugging but can be longer. Our tool supports both.
For CSS backgrounds, base64 is typically preferred:
background-image: url('data:image/svg+xml;base64,...');
Common Use Cases
- Icon systems in CSS
- Decorative SVG backgrounds
- CSS-only UI components
- Design tokens with embedded graphics
Pro Tip
For simple SVGs, URL encoding actually produces smaller strings than base64. Try both and compare.
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