Morse Code Translator Online — Encode and Decode Morse Code

What Is Morse Code?

Morse code is a method of encoding text characters as sequences of dots (·) and dashes (–). Invented by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail in the 1830s for telegraph communication, Morse code was the first digital communication system. It encodes the 26 letters, digits 0–9, and common punctuation. Despite its age, Morse code is still used in amateur radio (ham radio), military communications, and accessibility applications for people with motor impairments.

How to Use a Morse Code Translator Online

1. Choose direction — text to Morse or Morse to text.
2. Type your input — plain text or Morse code using dots (.) and dashes (-).
3. View the translation — instantly converted in the output panel.
4. Play audio — listen to the Morse code played as beeps to learn pronunciation.
5. Copy the result — use the output in your application or document.

Morse Code Reference Table

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 --..

0 -----  1 .----  2 ..---  3 ...--
4 ....-  5 .....  6 -....  7 --...
8 ---..  9 ----.

SOS: ... --- ...   (international distress signal)

Morse Code Timing Rules

• Dot duration — 1 unit.
• Dash duration — 3 units.
• Gap between symbols in a letter — 1 unit (silence).
• Gap between letters — 3 units.
• Gap between words — 7 units.

Use Cases

Amateur Radio (Ham Radio)

Morse code (CW — continuous wave) is still used by ham radio operators worldwide. Some international amateur radio licenses still require Morse proficiency, and CW communication is prized for its ability to punch through interference that would block voice transmissions.

Accessibility Applications

People with motor impairments who cannot use standard keyboards can input text using Morse code with a single switch. Google's Gboard keyboard app includes a Morse code input mode for this purpose.

Puzzles and Escape Rooms

Morse code frequently appears in puzzles, escape rooms, ARGs (alternate reality games), and educational games. An online translator quickly decodes clues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SOS in Morse code?

SOS is ... --- ... (three dots, three dashes, three dots). It was chosen as an international distress signal not because it stands for anything specific, but because it's easy to transmit and recognize. The letters S and O have simple, distinctive patterns.

How fast can experienced Morse code operators send?

Speed is measured in words per minute (WPM). Beginners start at 5 WPM. Competent operators reach 20–25 WPM. Expert operators and machines can exceed 60 WPM. The fastest human Morse code operation was demonstrated at over 75 WPM.

Is Morse code still taught and used?

Yes. The international amateur radio community actively uses CW (Morse code). The ITU (International Telecommunication Union) maintains the international standard. Many countries' military and coast guard organizations maintain Morse proficiency. It's also used in light signals (lamp flashing) for ship-to-ship communication.

How do I distinguish dots from dashes in written Morse code?

Conventionally, dots are written as . and dashes as -. Letters are separated by spaces; words are separated by / or a larger space. Some representations use the international ITU convention with a space between each symbol's dots and dashes.

Can I learn Morse code quickly?

The Koch method is the most effective: start with just 2 characters at high speed, add new characters as you reach proficiency. Apps like Morse Mania and websites like lcwo.net (Learn CW Online) use this method. Most people can learn to decode basic Morse code with a few weeks of daily practice.