Morse Code Translator
Convert text to Morse code and decode Morse to text with audio playback
Morse Code Chart
Related Tools
Punycode Converter
Convert international domain names (IDN) to Punycode and back
URL Slug Generator
Convert text into SEO-friendly URL slugs automatically
Text Diff Checker
Compare two blocks of text to find differences and changes
Text to Binary
Convert text to binary code and binary to text instantly
Unicode Character Lookup
Search and find information about any Unicode character
URL Extractor
Extract all URLs and links from text content automatically
What is Morse Code?
Morse code is a method of encoding text characters using sequences of dots (•) and dashes (−). Developed in the 1830s by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail for telegraph communication, it became the standard for long-distance communication before the advent of voice radio.
This free online Morse code translator instantly converts text to Morse code and decodes Morse back to readable text. With built-in audio playback, you can hear how your message sounds in Morse code—perfect for learning, amateur radio, or just having fun.
How Morse Code Works
Morse code represents each letter and number with a unique combination of dots and dashes:
Dot (•) - "Dit"
A short signal, one unit in length. When spoken, it's pronounced as "dit" or "di".
Dash (−) - "Dah"
A long signal, three units in length. When spoken, it's pronounced as "dah".
Timing Rules
Gap between elements: 1 unit. Gap between letters: 3 units. Gap between words: 7 units (represented as / in text).
Famous Morse Code Signals
SOS
... --- ...International distress signal. Chosen because it's easy to recognize—three dots, three dashes, three dots.
CQ (Calling Any Station)
-.-. --.-Used by ham radio operators to initiate a conversation with any listening station.
Modern Uses of Morse Code
Amateur Radio
Ham radio operators still use Morse code (CW mode) for its efficiency and ability to work in poor signal conditions.
Aviation
Navigation beacons (VORs, NDBs) identify themselves using Morse code for pilot verification.
Accessibility
Some assistive technologies use Morse code as an input method for people with limited mobility.
Pop Culture
Morse code appears in movies, games, and puzzles as a way to encode secret messages.
Tips for Learning Morse Code
- Learn by sound: Don't visualize dots and dashes—listen to the rhythm and sound patterns.
- Start with common letters: E, T, A, N, I, M, S are most frequent and have simple patterns.
- Use the Koch method: Start at full speed with two letters, add more as you master them.
- Practice daily: Even 10 minutes of consistent practice beats occasional long sessions.
- Use this tool: Type messages and listen to them with the play button to reinforce learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does SOS mean in Morse code?
SOS is the international distress signal (... --- ...). It doesn't actually stand for anything—it was chosen because it's distinctive and easy to transmit and recognize.
Is Morse code still used today?
Yes! While no longer required for professional maritime use since 1999, it's still popular among amateur radio operators and used in aviation navigation beacons.
How fast can experts transmit Morse code?
Skilled operators can send and receive 40+ words per minute. The world record is over 75 WPM. Most beginners start at 5-13 WPM.