Morse Code Converter
Translate text ↔ Morse · Play beeps · Record taps or tones · Control speed
Morse code reference — click any character to hear it
Frequently asked questions about Morse code
What is Morse code?
Morse code is a method of encoding text using short signals (dots) and long signals (dashes). Developed in the 1830s by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail, it was the dominant form of long-distance communication for over 100 years. Each letter and digit has a unique dot-dash pattern — for example: S = ... and O = ---.
What is SOS in Morse code?
SOS in Morse code is ... --- ... (three dots, three dashes, three dots). It was adopted as the international distress signal in 1906 because it is simple, fast to transmit, and unmistakable. "Save Our Souls" is a popular backronym — SOS was chosen for its pattern, not its meaning.
How do I decode Morse code?
Use the Convert tab and switch to Morse → Text mode, then paste your Morse code with letters separated by spaces and words separated by a forward slash (/). Or use the Record tab — press Start Listening, make taps or play tones near your microphone, and the tool decodes in real time.
Can I record and decode Morse code with my microphone?
Yes — use the Record tab. Press Start Listening and tap your microphone with your finger or play Morse tones near it. The tool displays a live waveform, measures the duration of each sound to determine dots vs dashes, then automatically separates letters and words and shows the decoded text. Works best in a quiet environment.
How do I tap Morse code on my phone?
Use the Tap Input tab. Tap the large button on screen — a short tap is a dot and a long press is a dash. The tool plays a beep for each tap and decodes your input live. On desktop you can also use the spacebar. Adjust the dot/dash threshold slider if your taps aren't being read correctly.
How do I control the speed of Morse code playback?
Use the Transmit tab. Type your text, then drag the speed slider between 5 WPM (beginner/learning speed) and 30 WPM (experienced). Standard conversational Morse is around 13 WPM. Each dot and dash highlights as it plays so you can follow along visually.
Is Morse code still used today?
Yes. Amateur (ham) radio operators worldwide use Morse code daily. Aviation VOR beacons transmit identifiers in Morse. Some military units train in Morse for resilient communication. The ITU (International Telecommunication Union) maintains the international standard.
What does dit and dah mean in Morse code?
Morse code operators use "dit" for a dot (short signal) and "dah" for a dash (long signal, 3× the length of a dit). Between dits and dahs within one letter: one dit of silence. Between letters: three dits of silence. Between words: seven dits of silence.
How long does it take to learn Morse code?
Most people can learn to send and receive Morse at 5 words per minute (WPM) in 2–4 weeks of daily practice. Reaching 20 WPM — considered proficient — takes 3–6 months. The Koch method (learn all characters at full speed, then build vocabulary) is proven fastest. Use the Tap Input and Transmit tabs on this page to practice.