Data Rate Converter

Convert between Mbps, MB/s, Gbps and more — and settle the bit vs byte confusion.

Result

Result

0.1250

How it works

Result = value × (from bit/s factor ÷ to bit/s factor)

Data rates are quoted in bits per second, file sizes in bytes, and a byte is eight bits. That single factor of eight explains most of the confusion between what an internet plan promises and what a download manager shows. So a 100 Mbps line delivers at most 100 ÷ 8 = 12.5 MB/s. Nothing is being withheld: the two numbers measure the same flow in different units. Watch the capitalisation, because it carries the whole meaning — Mb is megabits, MB is megabytes. Real throughput sits below the theoretical figure anyway. Protocol overhead, Wi-Fi losses, distant servers and other devices on the line all take a share, so 80–90% of the advertised rate is a good day. Providers quote the ceiling, not the average.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is my 100 Mbps connection only 12.5 MB/s?

Because 1 byte = 8 bits. 100 Mbps ÷ 8 = 12.5 MB/s.

Is Mbps the same as MB/s?

No — Mbps is megabits per second; MB/s is megabytes per second (8× larger).

What speed do I need for 4K streaming?

Around 15–25 Mbps for a single 4K stream, depending on the service and the compression. Two simultaneous streams plus normal browsing is why 50 Mbps is a comfortable household figure rather than a luxury.

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