Cernarus

Convert Bits to Megabytes - Data Storage Converter

This converter translates digital quantities from bits (b) to megabytes (MB) using the standard SI decimal definition where 1 MB = 1,000,000 bytes.

It also clarifies binary alternatives (MiB) so you can pick the convention required by your workflow or documentation.

Updated Nov 1, 2025

Interactive Converter

Convert between bit and megabyte with precision rounding.

Quick reference table

BitMegabyte
1 b0 MB
5 b0 MB
10 b0 MB
25 b0 MB
50 b0 MB
100 b0 MB

Methodology

Core identity: 1 byte = 8 bits. Decimal prefixes: 1 MB = 1,000,000 bytes.

Conversion path (decimal): bits → bytes (÷8) → megabytes (÷1,000,000). Combined: MB = bits ÷ (8 × 1,000,000).

Binary option: if you need mebibytes (MiB), use 1 MiB = 1,048,576 bytes. The bit-to-byte factor stays ÷8; only the divisor changes.

Worked examples

Example (decimal): 8,000,000 bits → 8,000,000 ÷ (8 × 1,000,000) = 1 MB.

Example (decimal): 80,000,000 bits → 10 MB.

Binary comparison: 8,388,608 bits → 8,388,608 ÷ (8 × 1,048,576) = 1 MiB.

Key takeaways

This converter divides bits by 8, then by 1,000,000 to yield decimal megabytes. For binary MiB, swap the divisor to 1,048,576.

State whether you use decimal or binary prefixes to avoid ambiguity in reports and specifications.

Further resources

Expert Q&A

What is the exact difference between MB and MiB?

MB uses decimal prefixes (1 MB = 1,000,000 bytes). MiB uses binary prefixes (1 MiB = 1,048,576 bytes). Both use 1 byte = 8 bits; the difference is the prefix.

Why might a displayed size differ across tools?

Some tools use decimal prefixes (MB) and others use binary prefixes (MiB) but label them similarly. The underlying byte count is the same; the divisor differs (1,000,000 vs 1,048,576).

Which convention should I use?

Use decimal MB for marketing specs and SI-based documentation. Use binary MiB for OS/file-system contexts or whenever a standard explicitly requires binary prefixes. Always state which base you’re using.

Is the conversion exact?

Yes. The arithmetic is exact for the chosen base. Rounding is only for display.

How do I handle binary inputs?

If your source is in MiB/GiB, convert to bytes first (multiply by the binary byte count), then divide by 1,000,000 to get MB. This preserves exactness and avoids base confusion.

Sources & citations