How to Convert Terabytes to Bits (TB 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 terabytes into bits by hand, with examples and a quick-reference table.
The conversion
To convert terabytes to bits, multiply the value by 8.000000e+12. To go the other way, divide by the same number (or multiply by 1.250000e-13). For a quick estimate, multiply by about 8,000,000,000,000.
Bits = terabytes × 8.000000e+12
Worked examples
- 3 TB = 2.400000e+13 bit
- 12.5 TB = 1.000000e+14 bit
- 75 TB = 6.000000e+14 bit
Terabytes to Bits table
| Terabytes | Bits |
|---|---|
| 1 TB | 8.000000e+12 bit |
| 2 TB | 1.600000e+13 bit |
| 5 TB | 4.000000e+13 bit |
| 10 TB | 8.000000e+13 bit |
| 20 TB | 1.600000e+14 bit |
| 25 TB | 2.000000e+14 bit |
| 50 TB | 4.000000e+14 bit |
| 100 TB | 8.000000e+14 bit |
| 250 TB | 2.000000e+15 bit |
| 500 TB | 4.000000e+15 bit |
| 1,000 TB | 8.000000e+15 bit |
Common questions
Is TB 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 Terabytes converter.
Mistakes to avoid
Mixing similar-sounding units
US and imperial gallons, pints and tons are different sizes, and decimal kilobytes differ from binary kibibytes.
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.
Background
A conversion table is handy for common values, but a calculator is faster and avoids interpolation errors for anything in between.
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.
For any value, use the Terabytes to Bits Converter or browse all data storage converters.
Run your own numbers: Terabytes to Bits Converter