Hex Encoder/Decoder
Encode text to hexadecimal and decode hex to text online. Free bidirectional Hex Encoder/Decoder tool.
How to Use This Hex Encoder/Decoder
- Enter text to convert it to hexadecimal, or enter hex codes to decode them to text.
- Select the conversion direction: encode (text to hex) or decode (hex to text).
- The result appears instantly in the output field.
What is Hex Encoding?
Hex encoding converts each byte of data into a two-character hexadecimal (base-16) representation. It is widely used in programming, networking, and data analysis to represent binary data in a compact, human-readable format. Hex decoding reverses this process, converting hex strings back into the original data.
Features
- Bidirectional conversion between text and hexadecimal
- Real-time encoding and decoding as you type
- Support for multiple hex formats (with spaces, colons, or plain)
- One-click copy of the result to clipboard
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is hexadecimal preferred over binary for displaying data?
Hexadecimal is much more compact than binary. One hex digit represents exactly 4 binary bits, so a byte (8 bits) is represented by just 2 hex digits instead of 8 binary digits. This makes hex easier to read and work with in debugging and data analysis.
What is the difference between hex encoding and Base64 encoding?
Hex encoding represents each byte as 2 characters, resulting in output that is exactly twice the size of the input. Base64 uses a 64-character alphabet and represents 3 bytes as 4 characters, resulting in roughly 33% size increase. Base64 is more space-efficient for large data.