How to Convert Bits to Bytes (bit to B)
Data conversions explain why a 1 TB drive shows less space on your computer and help compare mobile plans sold in gigabytes. This guide shows how to convert bits into bytes by hand, with examples and a quick-reference table.
The conversion
To convert bits to bytes, multiply the value by 0.125. To go the other way, divide by the same number (or multiply by 8). For a quick estimate, multiply by about 0.12.
Bytes = bits × 0.125
Worked examples
- 3 bit = 0.375 B
- 12.5 bit = 1.5625 B
- 75 bit = 9.375 B
Bits to Bytes table
| Bits | Bytes |
|---|---|
| 1 bit | 0.125 B |
| 2 bit | 0.25 B |
| 5 bit | 0.625 B |
| 10 bit | 1.25 B |
| 20 bit | 2.5 B |
| 25 bit | 3.125 B |
| 50 bit | 6.25 B |
| 100 bit | 12.5 B |
| 250 bit | 31.25 B |
| 500 bit | 62.5 B |
| 1,000 bit | 125 B |
Common questions
Is bit to B exact?
The factors used here are the internationally defined values where they exist; results are rounded for display only.
How do I convert back?
Use the Bytes to Bits converter.
Mistakes to avoid
Multiplying when you should divide
Converting to a smaller unit gives a bigger number, and converting to a larger unit gives a smaller one. If your answer moves the wrong way, you have inverted the factor.
Rounding the factor too early
Using 3 instead of 3.28 for feet per metre introduces an error of almost 9% before you have started.
Forgetting squared and cubed units
Area and volume factors are the length factor squared or cubed, so 1 m² is about 10.76 sq ft, not 3.28.
Background
Many conversion factors are exact by definition. The inch has been defined as exactly 2.54 centimetres since 1959, and the pound as exactly 0.45359237 kilograms, so conversions involving them can be as precise as you need.
Singapore adopted the metric system in the 1970s, replacing imperial units and traditional Chinese measures in most official uses. Metric units are now standard in schools, trade and government, but older units survive in property, markets and imported goods.
A conversion table is handy for common values, but a calculator is faster and avoids interpolation errors for anything in between.
For any value, use the Bits to Bytes Converter or browse all data storage converters.
Run your own numbers: Bits to Bytes Converter