Convert Bytes to Bits - Data Storage Converter
This converter converts data quantities from bytes to bits using the exact, fixed relationship: 1 byte = 8 bits. It is intended for software developers, system administrators, data analysts, and anyone needing precise unit conversions for storage calculations, bandwidth comparisons, or reporting.
The tool distinguishes common contexts that affect how quantities are expressed: storage manufacturers often use decimal SI prefixes (kB = 1,000 bytes), some operating systems and tools use binary prefixes (KiB = 1,024 bytes), and network speeds are typically reported in bits per second. Use the guidance below to choose the right interpretation for your workflow.
Interactive Converter
Convert between byte and bit with precision rounding.
Quick reference table
| Byte | Bit |
|---|---|
| 1 B | 8 b |
| 5 B | 40 b |
| 10 B | 80 b |
| 25 B | 200 b |
| 50 B | 400 b |
| 100 B | 800 b |
Methodology
The conversion itself is exact and derived from the definition of the byte as a group of 8 bits. No approximation is required for the basic bytes↔bits relationship.
Where prefixes are present (kilo, mega, giga, or their binary counterparts kibi, mebi, gibi) we follow the internationally recognized distinctions: SI (decimal) prefixes multiply by powers of 10, while binary (IEC) prefixes multiply by powers of 2. For authoritative guidance on prefixes and units consult standards and technical references from NIST and ISO/IEC.
For practical workflows, we advise confirming whether a given value uses decimal prefixes (e.g., 1 kB = 1,000 bytes) or binary prefixes (e.g., 1 KiB = 1,024 bytes) before converting and reporting results.
Worked examples
1 byte → 8 bits
2.5 bytes → 20 bits (2.5 × 8 = 20)
1 kB (decimal) → 8,000 bits (1,000 bytes × 8)
1 KiB (binary) → 8,192 bits (1,024 bytes × 8)
Further resources
External guidance
Expert Q&A
Is the conversion between bytes and bits exact or approximate?
The conversion 1 byte = 8 bits is exact by definition. Any imprecision arises only when interpreting prefixes (kilo vs kibi) or when rounding fractional results for display.
What is the difference between kB and KiB when converting?
kB (lowercase k) typically denotes the decimal prefix kilo = 1,000. KiB denotes the binary prefix kibi = 1,024. Resolve the prefix first (kB = 1,000 bytes, KiB = 1,024 bytes) and then multiply by 8 to get bits.
How should I convert file sizes vs network speeds?
File sizes and storage appliance capacities are often quoted using decimal prefixes by manufacturers, while operating systems or file systems may display binary-based sizes. Network speeds are generally expressed in bits per second (e.g., Mbps). Convert bytes to bits when comparing storage size to transfer size or to calculate transfer times, and ensure both sides use the same prefix convention.
How many decimal places or rounding should I use?
Keep conversions exact where possible. For user interfaces, round to a sensible number of significant digits (typically 2–4) depending on context and display space, and always show the unit and prefix convention (e.g., '8,000 bits (kB decimal)').
Can large values overflow common numeric types?
Very large counts (petabytes and above) can exceed 32-bit integer ranges. Use 64-bit integers or arbitrary-precision types in code and be explicit about units to avoid overflow and truncation.
Are there official standards I can cite for prefix usage?
Yes. Industry and standards bodies publish guidance on SI and binary prefixes. Refer to NIST and ISO/IEC materials when documenting which prefix rules you adopt.
Sources & citations
- NIST — Binary prefixes (kibi, mebi, gibi) and guidance — https://www.nist.gov/pml/weights-and-measures/binary-prefixes
- NIST — Metric (SI) prefixes — https://www.nist.gov/pml/weights-and-measures/metric-si-prefixes
- MIT OpenCourseWare — Computer systems and related teaching resources — https://ocw.mit.edu
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO) — Standards portal — https://www.iso.org