Last updated: March 2026
Morse Code Encoder and Decoder
Morse code uses short signals (dots) and long signals (dashes) to represent every letter of the alphabet, all ten digits, and common punctuation marks. This tool lets you encode text into Morse code or decode Morse code back into readable text, all in real time as you type.
Beyond simple translation, this encoder includes audio playback with adjustable speed from 5 to 30 words per minute, a visual flash mode that mimics light-based Morse signaling, and an interactive learning section where you can browse the alphabet and quiz yourself on Morse code patterns.
How Morse Code Works
Every character in Morse code is represented by a unique combination of dots and dashes. A dot is one unit long, and a dash is three units long. The gap between dots and dashes within a single letter is one unit. The gap between letters is three units. The gap between words is seven units.
The most common letters in English have the shortest codes: E is a single dot, T is a single dash, A is dot-dash, and I is dot-dot. This design means typical English text transmits faster than it would with fixed-length codes — a principle that modern compression algorithms still use today.
The internationally recognized distress signal SOS (... --- ...) was chosen specifically because it is unmistakable in Morse code — three dots, three dashes, three dots, with no letter gaps. It does not actually stand for "Save Our Souls" as commonly believed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert text to Morse code?
Type or paste your message into the text input area. The Morse code translation appears instantly in the output area. Dots (.) represent short signals, dashes (-) represent long signals, spaces separate letters, and forward slashes (/) separate words.
Can I listen to Morse code audio?
Yes. Click the Play Audio button to hear your translated message as authentic Morse code tones. Adjust the speed from 5 to 30 words per minute using the slider. You can also enable Flash Mode for synchronized visual flashes.
Is this Morse code translator free to use?
Yes, completely free with no limits, no account required, and no data collection. The tool runs entirely in your browser — nothing is uploaded to any server.
Can I learn Morse code with this tool?
Yes. Switch to the Learn tab to browse letters one at a time with audio playback, or test your knowledge with the interactive quiz. The quiz tracks your score and lets you practice both encoding (letter to Morse) and decoding (Morse to letter).
What characters does this translator support?
The translator supports the full Latin alphabet (A-Z), digits (0-9), and common punctuation marks including period, comma, question mark, exclamation mark, forward slash, at sign, hyphen, apostrophe, quotation mark, semicolon, colon, and equals sign.