UTF-8 is a variable-width character encoding that can represent all Unicode code points. ASCII characters use 1 byte; other characters use 2–4 bytes. It is the dominant encoding on the web.

What is the difference between UTF-8 and UTF-16?

UTF-8 uses 1–4 bytes per character and is efficient for ASCII-heavy text. UTF-16 uses 2 or 4 bytes per character and is efficient for text heavy with non-Latin characters. JavaScript strings are internally UTF-16.

UTF-8 / UTF-16 Encoder - Free Online Unicode Tool

How to Use utf-encoder

Type or paste the text containing Unicode characters you want to encode or inspect.
Adjust any available options shown - the output updates as you type.
The result updates instantly - no submit button required for most operations.
Click Copy or Download to take the output to your next step.

UTF-8 / UTF-16 Encoder allows you to inspect the binary and hex structures of your text data. This free online Unicode tool is designed for developers who need to verify how characters are represented in memory or stored in multi-byte formats. Whether you are dealing with standard ASCII or complex emoji, this utility provides an instant breakdown of every code unit.

Advanced Unicode Encoding Logic

This byte representation utility supports three distinct modes: UTF-8 hex bytes, UTF-16 code units, and raw Unicode code point analysis. It correctly identifies the varying byte lengths (1-4 bytes) for characters in UTF-8, making it a powerful character encoding viewer for debugging database storage issues. All processing is handled 100% in your browser, keeping your data strings completely private during analysis.

Full support for multi-byte UTF-8 hex byte sequences
Detailed UTF-16 code unit extraction (hex or decimal)
Live character to Unicode code point analyzer
Real-time byte and character counts for every input
One-click export of hex sequences for developer use

Frequently Asked Questions

What does utf-encoder do?

utf-encoder view the utf-8 and utf-16 byte representation of any text.

What input does utf-encoder accept?

Paste text directly into the input field, or type your data. Most operations handle Unicode, special characters, and multi-line inputs without issue.

How large an input can I process?

There is no hard limit imposed by this tool. Very large inputs (multi-MB text) process within your browser's available memory. For files larger than 50 MB, a command-line tool may be faster.

Can I download the output?

Yes - every output panel includes a Copy to Clipboard button and a Download as file option. Outputs are saved as plain text or the appropriate file format for the operation.

Whether you are debugging a network protocol or auditing character storage, this free online UTF-8 / UTF-16 encoder provides the detailed mapping you need.

UTF-8 / UTF-16 Encoder & Decoder online

View the UTF-8 and UTF-16 byte representation of any text - runs in your browser