Base58 vs Base58Check

Base58 removes look-alike characters from the alphabet to make encodings easier to read and transcribe. Base58Check adds structure: a version byte identifies the payload type and a checksum protects against accidental errors. This format is used for Bitcoin-style addresses. For non-address data, plain Base58 is often sufficient.

If you are building address formats, choose a clear version map and validate with checksums. Explore: Base58, Base58Check, and SHA-256 for the checksum derivation.

Related tools

Try: Base58, Base58Check, Z85

FAQ

What does Base58Check add on top of Base58?

A 1-byte version prefix and a 4-byte checksum derived from double SHA-256. This detects common transcription errors.

Do I need Base58Check for arbitrary data?

Not usually. Base58Check is primarily for address-like payloads where human entry and versioning matter.