Last updated: September 16, 2026
Quick answer: Use the tool above to convert between any data storage units. Choose a from-unit and a to-unit, enter a value, and the result updates instantly.
Data Storage Converter
Convert digital storage units from bytes to petabytes, in decimal or binary.
Data storage is measured in bytes and their multiples. This converter covers everything from bits to petabytes, and lets you switch between the decimal convention used by storage makers (1 GB = 1000 MB) and the binary convention used by some operating systems (1 GB = 1024 MB).
How the data storage converter works
Each unit is stored as its size in bytes (the base unit). A toggle switches the whole scale between decimal (base-1000) and binary (base-1024).
Every unit is defined relative to a base unit (bytes), so any unit can convert to any other in one step.
Step-by-step
- Pick the unit you're converting from.
- Pick the unit you're converting to.
- Enter the value.
- Read the result, and adjust precision if needed.
Worked example
Convert 1000 MB to GB (decimal):
So 1000 megabytes is 1 gigabyte in the decimal convention (about 0.977 GB in binary).
Data storage units reference (relative to the byte)
| Unit | Equivalent in bytes |
|---|---|
| Bit (b) | 0.125 bytes |
| Byte (B) | 1 byte |
| Kilobyte (KB) | 1,000 bytes |
| Megabyte (MB) | 1,000,000 bytes |
| Gigabyte (GB) | 1,000,000,000 bytes |
| Terabyte (TB) | 1,000,000,000,000 bytes |
| Petabyte (PB) | 1,000,000,000,000,000 bytes |
Understanding your result
Results are exact to the precision you select; pick more significant digits for scientific work or fewer for everyday use.
Accuracy & limitations
Storage makers and networks use decimal units (1 GB = 1000 MB); some operating systems report binary units (1 GB = 1024 MB), which is why a '1 TB' drive can show as about 0.909 TB. Use the toggle to match the context.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1 GB equal to 1000 MB or 1024 MB?
It depends on the convention: decimal (used by drive makers) is 1 GB = 1000 MB; binary (used by some operating systems) is 1 GB = 1024 MB.
How many MB are in a GB?
1,000 MB in the decimal convention, or 1,024 MB in the binary convention.
Why does my hard drive show less space than advertised?
Drives are labeled in decimal GB/TB, but some systems report binary units, so the number shown is a few percent smaller.
Related converters
Creator
Shakeel Muzaffar is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of MultiCalculators.com, bringing over 15 years of experience in digital publishing, product strategy, and online tool development. He leads the platform's editorial vision, ensuring every calculator meets strict standards for accuracy, usability, and real-world value. Shakeel personally oversees content quality, formula verification workflows, and the platform's commitment to publishing tools that are genuinely useful for students, professionals, and everyday users worldwide.
Areas of Expertise: Editorial Leadership, Digital Publishing, Product Strategy, Online Calculators, Web Standards
