Base64 is more compact; Base32 is easier for people to read and type and is case-insensitive. Neither is encryption.
Side by side
| Base64 | Base32 | |
|---|---|---|
| Alphabet | 64 characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, +, /) | 32 characters (A-Z, 2-7) |
| Size overhead | About 33% | About 60% |
| Case sensitive | Yes | No |
| Typical use | Embedding binary in text, data URLs | One-time-password secrets, values typed by hand |
When to use which
Choose Base64 when size matters and machines handle the value. Choose Base32 when people may read, speak or retype it.