Morse Code Translator - Encode and Decode Morse Code Online

Morse code is a method of encoding text as a sequence of short signals (dots) and long signals (dashes). Invented in the 1830s for telegraphy, it remains in use today for aviation, amateur radio, and assistive technologies.

The Morse Code Alphabet

Each letter maps to a unique sequence: A = dot-dash, B = dash-dot-dot-dot, S = dot-dot-dot, O = dash-dash-dash. The famous distress signal SOS is three dots, three dashes, three dots.

International vs American Morse

The International Morse Code (ITU-R M.1677) is the global standard. American Morse was used on US railroads and differs slightly. SnapSum uses International Morse Code.

Modern Uses of Morse Code

• Amateur radio - operators still use Morse (CW) for long-distance communication
• Aviation - pilots learn Morse to identify VOR navigation beacons
• Accessibility - assistive tech can convert Morse input to text for people with motor disabilities
• Escape/survival - tapping SOS on a pipe or wall can signal rescuers

Free Morse Code Translator

Use SnapSum Morse Code Translator - type text to get Morse code, or paste Morse to decode it back to text. Includes the full Morse reference table. 100% browser-based, no signup.