Data Storage Converter
Convert between different data storage units such as bits, bytes, kilobytes, megabytes, gigabytes, terabytes, petabytes, exabytes, zettabytes, and yottabytes.
Data Storage Converter
Common Data Storage Converter Formulas
- 1 byte = 8 bits
- 1 kilobyte = 1024 bytes
- 1 megabyte = 1024 kilobytes
- 1 gigabyte = 1024 megabytes
- 1 terabyte = 1024 gigabytes
Common Data Storage Converter References
- Text File: 1-100 KB
- Image File: 1-10 MB
- Video File: 1-10 GB
- Hard Drive: 500GB-2TB
- Server Storage: 10-100 TB
- Data Center: Petabyte level
What is Data Storage Conversion?
Data storage conversion involves converting digital storage measurements between different units. In our digital age, understanding data sizes is essential for evaluating storage devices, managing files, and understanding internet speeds. Our data storage converter handles all common units from bits to yottabytes, with proper binary (1024-based) calculations.
Common Data Storage Units Explained
Byte (B)
The fundamental unit of digital storage, typically representing one character. One byte equals 8 bits. File sizes are usually measured in bytes or larger units.
Kilobyte (KB)
Equal to 1,024 bytes in binary (or 1,000 in decimal). A typical email without attachments is about 2-5 KB.
Megabyte (MB)
Equal to 1,024 KB. A typical MP3 song is 3-5 MB. Photos from smartphones are usually 2-5 MB each.
Gigabyte (GB)
Equal to 1,024 MB. A standard movie is 1-4 GB. Smartphone storage typically ranges from 64-512 GB.
Terabyte (TB)
Equal to 1,024 GB. Modern hard drives are typically 1-4 TB. About 200,000 songs or 500 hours of video.
When to Use This Converter
Our data storage converter is essential for IT professionals managing storage systems, consumers comparing device specifications, developers optimizing file sizes, and anyone working with digital data and needing to understand storage requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do hard drive sizes seem smaller than advertised?
Manufacturers use decimal (1 GB = 1,000 MB), but computers use binary (1 GB = 1,024 MB). A "1 TB" drive shows as about 931 GB in your computer.
What is the difference between bits and bytes?
1 byte = 8 bits. Internet speeds are usually in bits (Mbps), while file sizes are in bytes (MB). An 8 Mbps connection downloads at about 1 MB per second.