Last updated: March 2, 2026 by Dr. David Park

How to Convert Between Data Size Units

Formula

Binary: 1 KB = 1024 B; 1 MB = 1024 KB; 1 GB = 1024 MB; 1 TB = 1024 GB

Data size conversion uses powers of 1024 (binary) in computing. This converter handles bytes through petabytes using the binary (IEC) standard.

In the binary system: 1 KB = 1,024 bytes, 1 MB = 1,048,576 bytes, 1 GB = 1,073,741,824 bytes. Storage manufacturers often use decimal (powers of 1000) which is why drives appear smaller than advertised.

Common use cases:

  • Understanding hard drive and SSD capacities
  • Calculating file storage requirements
  • Network data transfer size planning

Frequently Asked Questions

DD

Dr. David Park

Applied Mathematician, PhD Mathematics

David holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from MIT. He has published research on numerical methods and computational algorithms used in engineering and scientific calculators.

Share & Embed

Was this calculator helpful?

Related Calculators