Both turn bytes into plain text and both are reversible by anyone. The choice comes down to size against readability.
Side by side
| Base64 | Base32 | |
|---|---|---|
| Characters | A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, / | A-Z, 2-7 |
| Bits per character | 6 | 5 |
| Size versus the input | About 33% larger | About 60% larger |
| Case-sensitive | Yes | No |
| Easy to read aloud | No | Yes |
| Typical use | Data URLs, attachments, tokens | Authenticator secrets, typed codes |
The same word
“Hello” is SGVsbG8= in Base64 and JBSWY3DP in Base32. The Base32 form is longer, but it contains only capital letters and digits, so nothing is lost if a system changes the case.
Which to choose
Use Base64 for embedding or transferring data when size matters. Use Base32 when a human reads or types the value, or when it may pass through a system that ignores case, such as some file names. Try both in the Base64 tool and the Base32 and Base58 tool.
Neither is encryption. See the guides to Base64 and Base32 and Base58.