Convert Unicode to UTF-16

How to Convert Unicode to UTF-16 Online

Our free online Unicode to UTF-16 converter allows you to transform Unicode text into UTF-16 encoded bytes while maintaining proper Unicode character handling. This is particularly useful for understanding text encoding, debugging encoding issues, or preparing text for systems that require UTF-16 encoding.

Unlike simple text conversion, our tool properly handles Unicode characters, including emojis, accented characters, and multi-byte sequences, ensuring accurate UTF-16 encoding regardless of the text's complexity.

Key Features

• Unicode-Aware Conversion: Properly handles all Unicode characters including emojis and multi-byte sequences
• Multiple Output Formats: Generate hex, decimal, binary, or raw UTF-16 bytes
• Character Analysis: View detailed information about each character's UTF-16 encoding
• Real-time Processing: See results instantly as you type
• Multiple Input Methods: Paste text, type directly, or upload files
• Copy to Clipboard: Easy one-click copying of results
• No Registration Required: Use the tool immediately without creating an account
• Privacy Focused: All processing happens in your browser

How to Use the Convert Unicode to UTF-16 Tool

1. Enter Your Text

Paste or type your Unicode text into the input area. The tool accepts any Unicode text including emojis, accented characters, and special symbols.

2. Choose Output Format

Select your preferred output format:

• Hex: UTF-16 bytes in hexadecimal format
• Decimal: UTF-16 bytes in decimal format
• Binary: UTF-16 bytes in binary format
• Raw Bytes: Raw UTF-16 encoded bytes

3. View Results

The UTF-16 encoded text will appear in the output area with detailed character information. You can copy the result or download it as a file.

Common Use Cases

1. Text Encoding Analysis

Understand how Unicode text is encoded in UTF-16, useful for debugging encoding issues or learning about text encoding.

2. Data Processing

Convert text to UTF-16 for processing in systems that require specific encoding formats.

3. Programming and Development

Generate UTF-16 encoded strings for use in programming projects or API integrations.

4. Educational Purposes

Learn about Unicode and UTF-16 encoding by seeing how different characters are encoded.

UTF-16 Encoding Details

Character Encoding

UTF-16 uses variable-length encoding:

• 2 bytes: Basic Multilingual Plane characters (0-65535)
• 4 bytes: Supplementary characters (65536-1114111) using surrogate pairs

Surrogate Pairs

Characters outside the Basic Multilingual Plane are encoded using surrogate pairs, which consist of a high surrogate (U+D800-U+DBFF) followed by a low surrogate (U+DC00-U+DFFF).

Best Practices

1. Choose Appropriate Format

Select the output format that best suits your needs:

• Hex: For debugging and analysis
• Decimal: For programming applications
• Binary: For low-level analysis
• Raw Bytes: For direct use in applications

2. Test with Your Data

Test the tool with your specific Unicode text to ensure the results meet your requirements.

3. Consider Character Complexity

Remember that complex Unicode characters (like emojis with modifiers) may require surrogate pairs for proper UTF-16 encoding.

Technical Specifications

• Unicode Support: Full Unicode 15.0 support including emojis and special characters
• UTF-16 Encoding: Complete UTF-16 encoding support
• Processing: Client-side JavaScript for privacy and speed
• Maximum Length: Up to 10,000 characters per input
• Browser Compatibility: Works in all modern browsers