How to use the Morse code translator
- Text to Morse: type in the Text box — the Morse code appears instantly.
- Morse to text: type or paste dots (.) and dashes (-) in the Morse box. Put one space between letters and a slash (/) between words.
- Listen: press Play to hear the code. Adjust the speed in words per minute and the tone pitch; download a WAV file to share or practice offline.
Morse code timing
Morse code is built from two signals and three kinds of gaps, all based on the length of a dot (one unit):
- Dot = 1 unit; dash = 3 units.
- Gap between signals in a letter = 1 unit; between letters = 3 units; between words = 7 units.
Speed is measured in words per minute using the standard word “PARIS” (50 units). At 18 WPM a dot lasts about 67 milliseconds. Beginners often learn with the Farnsworth method: letters sent at full speed with extra space between them.
Famous Morse code signals
- SOS ( ... --- ... ) — the international distress signal, sent as one continuous sequence.
- CQ ( -.-. --.- ) — “calling any station”, used by amateur radio operators.
- 73 ( --... ...-- ) — “best regards” among radio hams.
Is Morse code still used?
Yes. Amateur radio operators use it daily, aviation navigation beacons still identify themselves in Morse, and it is used in assistive technology — people with limited mobility can type with a single switch using Morse. It’s also a popular puzzle, escape-room and secret-message code. For another way to encode text, try the binary translator.
Frequently asked questions
What is SOS in Morse code?
... --- ... (three dots, three dashes, three dots).
How do I separate words in Morse code?
Use a slash (/) or three spaces between words, and one space between letters.
Can I download the Morse code audio?
Yes. Press Download WAV to save the sound as an audio file.
What speed should I learn Morse code at?
Many learners start around 15–20 WPM character speed with extra spacing, then reduce the spacing as they improve.