Convert between bits, bytes, kilobytes, megabytes, gigabytes, and terabytes instantly
Data storage conversion involves converting between different units of digital information. Unlike the metric system, data storage uses binary multiples (powers of 2) rather than decimal multiples (powers of 10).
In computing, data storage is typically measured using binary (base-2) system where each higher unit is 1,024 times larger than the previous one. However, some storage manufacturers use decimal (base-10) definitions where 1 KB = 1,000 bytes. This converter uses the binary standard used in most computing contexts.
Note: When purchasing storage devices, you may notice a difference between advertised capacity (using decimal system) and actual usable capacity (using binary system). For example, a 1 TB hard drive might show as approximately 931 GB in your operating system.
A bit is the smallest unit of digital data, representing a binary value of 0 or 1. A byte consists of 8 bits and is the fundamental unit used to represent characters in computer systems.
Computers use binary (base-2) mathematics, where 1024 is 2^10 (2 raised to the 10th power). This makes it more efficient for digital systems to work with powers of 2 rather than powers of 10.
After terabytes come petabytes (PB), then exabytes (EB), zettabytes (ZB), and yottabytes (YB). Each is 1024 times larger than the previous unit.
Yes, this converter accurately converts between all standard digital storage units using binary conversion factors. It works for any type of digital data including files, storage capacity, and memory.