How to Convert Megabytes to Bits (MB to bit)
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 megabytes into bits by hand, with examples and a quick-reference table.
The conversion
To convert megabytes to bits, multiply the value by 8,000,000. To go the other way, divide by the same number (or multiply by 1.250000e-07). For a quick estimate, multiply by about 8,000,000.
Bits = megabytes × 8,000,000
Worked examples
- 3 MB = 24,000,000 bit
- 12.5 MB = 100,000,000 bit
- 75 MB = 600,000,000 bit
Megabytes to Bits table
| Megabytes | Bits |
|---|---|
| 1 MB | 8,000,000 bit |
| 2 MB | 16,000,000 bit |
| 5 MB | 40,000,000 bit |
| 10 MB | 80,000,000 bit |
| 20 MB | 160,000,000 bit |
| 25 MB | 200,000,000 bit |
| 50 MB | 400,000,000 bit |
| 100 MB | 800,000,000 bit |
| 250 MB | 2,000,000,000 bit |
| 500 MB | 4,000,000,000 bit |
| 1,000 MB | 8,000,000,000 bit |
Common questions
Is MB to bit 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 Bits to Megabytes converter.
Mistakes to avoid
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.
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.
Mixing similar-sounding units
US and imperial gallons, pints and tons are different sizes, and decimal kilobytes differ from binary kibibytes.
Background
For everyday use, three or four significant figures are usually enough. Engineering, science and trade documents may need more, and rounding should happen only at the end of a calculation.
Writing the units next to every number while you work is the simplest way to avoid mistakes. If the units do not cancel to leave the one you want, the calculation is set up wrongly.
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.
For any value, use the Megabytes to Bits Converter or browse all data storage converters.
Run your own numbers: Megabytes to Bits Converter