Morse Code Translator
Convert text to Morse code and back with audio playback. Perfect for learning, practicing, or encoding messages. Completely free with customizable settings.
Translation Mode
Input Text
Settings
Morse Code Guide
Encoding: Enter regular text and it will be converted to Morse code. Spaces between words become " / ".
Decoding: Enter Morse code with spaces between letters and " / " between words.
Audio Playback: Listen to your Morse code with adjustable speed (WPM) and tone frequency.
Custom Symbols: Change dit (•) and dah (—) to any characters you prefer.
Timing: Dit = 1 unit, Dah = 3 units, Letter space = 3 units, Word space = 7 units
What is Morse Code?
Morse code is a method of encoding text characters using sequences of dots (•) and dashes (—), or dits and dahs in audio form. Developed in the 1830s by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail for use with the telegraph, it remains one of the most recognizable communication systems in history.
Key Features
- Text to Morse Code: Convert any text into Morse code instantly
- Morse Code to Text: Decode Morse code back to readable text
- Audio Playback: Listen to your Morse code with realistic dit/dah sounds
- Adjustable Speed: Set transmission speed from 5 to 40 WPM (Words Per Minute)
- Custom Tone: Adjust audio frequency from 400 Hz to 1000 Hz
- Visual Display: See dots and dashes clearly formatted
- International Support: Supports letters, numbers, and common punctuation
- Custom Symbols: Use any characters for dit and dah symbols
- Real-Time Conversion: See results instantly as you type
- Copy & Download: Save your Morse code or decoded text
Understanding Morse Code
Basic Elements
- Dit (•): A short signal, typically represented by a dot
- Dah (—): A long signal (3× the length of a dit), represented by a dash
- Letter Space: Gap between letters (3 dit lengths)
- Word Space: Gap between words (7 dit lengths)
Timing Standards
Morse code timing follows strict ratios to ensure clarity:
- Dit = 1 time unit
- Dah = 3 time units
- Gap between dits/dahs within a letter = 1 time unit
- Gap between letters = 3 time units
- Gap between words = 7 time units
Morse Code Chart
Letters
A: •—
B: —•••
C: —•—•
D: —••
E: •
F: ••—•
G: ——•
H: ••••
I: ••
J: •———
K: —•—
L: •—••
M: ——
N: —•
O: ———
P: •——•
Q: ——•—
R: •—•
S: •••
T: —
U: ••—
V: •••—
W: •——
X: —••—
Y: —•——
Z: ——••
Numbers
0: —————
1: •————
2: ••———
3: •••——
4: ••••—
5: •••••
6: —••••
7: ——•••
8: ———••
9: ————•
Common
Period: •—•—•—
Comma: ——••——
Question: ••——••
SOS: •••———•••
Common Use Cases
1. Learning and Education
Use our tool to learn Morse code at your own pace. Start with slow speeds (5-10 WPM) and gradually increase as you improve. The audio playback helps train your ear to recognize dit and dah patterns.
2. Amateur Radio (Ham Radio)
Morse code (CW - Continuous Wave) is still widely used by amateur radio operators. Practice your code skills or encode messages before transmission. Many ham radio licenses require Morse code proficiency.
3. Emergency Communication
Morse code can be transmitted using light, sound, or even physical tapping, making it invaluable in emergency situations when other communication methods fail. The SOS signal (•••———•••) is universally recognized.
4. Secret Messages and Puzzles
Create encoded messages for games, escape rooms, geocaching, or just for fun. Morse code adds an element of mystery and requires recipients to actively decode the message.
5. Aviation and Maritime
Morse code is still used for certain navigation beacons and emergency signals in aviation and maritime contexts. Airport identifiers and navigation aids often transmit their identity in Morse code.
How to Use the Translator
Converting Text to Morse Code
- Select "Text to Morse Code" mode
- Type or paste your text in the input field
- The Morse code appears instantly in the output
- Adjust speed (WPM) and tone frequency if desired
- Click "Play Morse Code" to hear the audio
- Copy or download the Morse code result
Converting Morse Code to Text
- Select "Morse Code to Text" mode
- Enter Morse code with spaces between letters
- Use " / " (space-slash-space) to separate words
- The decoded text appears instantly
- Copy or download the result
Examples
Example 1: Simple Greeting
Text: HELLO
Morse: •••• • •—•• •—•• ———
Example 2: With Numbers
Text: CALL 911
Morse: —•—• •— •—•• •—•• / ————• •———— •————
Example 3: SOS Distress Signal
Text: SOS
Morse: ••• ——— •••
This is the international distress signal - three short, three long, three short signals.
History of Morse Code
Invention and Development
Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail developed Morse code in the 1830s and 1840s alongside the telegraph. The first message, "What hath God wrought," was sent on May 24, 1844, from Washington, D.C. to Baltimore, Maryland. This revolutionary communication system allowed messages to be transmitted over long distances almost instantly for the first time in history.
International Morse Code
The modern International Morse Code (ITU) was standardized in the early 20th century to facilitate international communication. It differs slightly from American Morse Code and is the standard used today. Our tool uses International Morse Code.
Golden Age and Decline
Morse code dominated long-distance communication for over a century. It was essential for telegraph services, shipping, aviation, and military communications. While replaced by more modern technologies in commercial use, it remains relevant in amateur radio and as a backup communication method.
Famous Morse Code Messages
First Telegraph Message (1844)
"What hath God wrought" - Samuel Morse's first official telegraph message.
Titanic SOS (1912)
The RMS Titanic sent "CQD" (the old distress signal) and "SOS" via Morse code, helping coordinate rescue efforts.
V for Victory (WWII)
The letter V in Morse (•••—) became a symbol of Allied victory, matching Beethoven's 5th Symphony opening.
Learning Tips
Effective Learning Strategies
- Start with common letters: E, T, A, O, I, N (most frequent in English)
- Learn by sound: Use audio playback to train your ear
- Practice daily: Even 10-15 minutes per day builds muscle memory
- Start slow: Begin at 5-10 WPM and gradually increase speed
- Use mnemonics: Create memory aids for difficult letters
- Practice receiving: Listen to Morse and decode it
- Practice sending: Convert text to Morse and verify
Speed Measurement (WPM)
Words Per Minute (WPM) in Morse code is based on the word "PARIS" (50 dits in length). At different speeds:
- 5 WPM: Very slow, ideal for absolute beginners
- 10 WPM: Slow, comfortable for learning
- 13 WPM: Old FCC requirement for General class license
- 20 WPM: Comfortable conversation speed for experienced operators
- 25-30 WPM: Proficient level
- 40+ WPM: Expert level
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn Morse code?
With consistent practice (15-30 minutes daily), most people can learn to recognize all letters and numbers within 2-4 weeks. Reaching proficiency (20+ WPM) typically takes 2-6 months of regular practice.
What is the SOS signal?
SOS is the international distress signal: three short signals, three long signals, three short signals (••• ——— •••). It's easy to recognize and transmit, making it perfect for emergencies. It doesn't actually stand for "Save Our Ship" - the letters were chosen because they're easy to transmit and recognize.
Can I customize the dit and dah symbols?
Yes! Our tool lets you use any characters for dit and dah. Common alternatives include •/— (bullet/em dash), ./- (period/hyphen), or even custom characters like ●/▬ for better visibility.
Why do I need spaces in Morse code?
Spaces separate individual letters. Without them, "HI" (•••• ••) and "EEEEE" (• • • • •) would be indistinguishable. Use "/" to separate words.
Is Morse code still used today?
Yes! While no longer used for commercial communication, Morse code remains popular in amateur radio, aviation navigation beacons, assistive technology for people with disabilities, and as a backup emergency communication method.
What's the best frequency for Morse code audio?
Most operators prefer 600-800 Hz as it's easy on the ears and stands out from background noise. Our default is 600 Hz, but you can adjust from 400-1000 Hz based on your preference.
Modern Applications
Assistive Technology
Morse code is used in assistive devices for people with severe disabilities. It can be input using simple switches, making it accessible for those who can't use traditional keyboards.
Navigation Aids
Many VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) navigation stations and airport identifiers still transmit their identity in Morse code, allowing pilots to verify their position.
Emergency Situations
When all else fails, Morse code can be transmitted with flashlights, whistles, horns, or even by tapping. Its simplicity makes it invaluable in crisis situations.
Start Learning Morse Code Today
Use our free Morse code translator to learn, practice, or encode messages. With audio playback and adjustable settings, it's perfect for beginners and experienced operators alike. No registration required.