Convert Bits to Megabytes - Data Storage Converter
This converter translates digital quantities from bits (b) to megabytes (MB) using the standard SI decimal definition where 1 MB = 1,000,000 bytes.
It also clarifies binary alternatives (MiB) so you can pick the convention required by your workflow or documentation.
Governance
Record ffe47f1fd98d • Reviewed by Fidamen Standards Committee
Interactive Converter
Convert between bit and megabyte with precision rounding.
Quick reference table
| Bit | Megabyte |
|---|---|
| BIT 1 b | 0 MB |
| BIT 5 b | 0 MB |
| BIT 10 b | 0 MB |
| BIT 25 b | 0 MB |
| BIT 50 b | 0 MB |
| BIT 100 b | 0 MB |
Methodology
Core identity: 1 byte = 8 bits. Decimal prefixes: 1 MB = 1,000,000 bytes.
Conversion path (decimal): bits → bytes (÷8) → megabytes (÷1,000,000). Combined: MB = bits ÷ (8 × 1,000,000).
Binary option: if you need mebibytes (MiB), use 1 MiB = 1,048,576 bytes. The bit-to-byte factor stays ÷8; only the divisor changes.
Key takeaways
This converter divides bits by 8, then by 1,000,000 to yield decimal megabytes. For binary MiB, swap the divisor to 1,048,576.
State whether you use decimal or binary prefixes to avoid ambiguity in reports and specifications.
Worked examples
Example (decimal): 8,000,000 bits → 8,000,000 ÷ (8 × 1,000,000) = 1 MB.
Example (decimal): 80,000,000 bits → 10 MB.
Binary comparison: 8,388,608 bits → 8,388,608 ÷ (8 × 1,048,576) = 1 MiB.
F.A.Q.
What is the exact difference between MB and MiB?
MB uses decimal prefixes (1 MB = 1,000,000 bytes). MiB uses binary prefixes (1 MiB = 1,048,576 bytes). Both use 1 byte = 8 bits; the difference is the prefix.
Why might a displayed size differ across tools?
Some tools use decimal prefixes (MB) and others use binary prefixes (MiB) but label them similarly. The underlying byte count is the same; the divisor differs (1,000,000 vs 1,048,576).
Which convention should I use?
Use decimal MB for marketing specs and SI-based documentation. Use binary MiB for OS/file-system contexts or whenever a standard explicitly requires binary prefixes. Always state which base you’re using.
Is the conversion exact?
Yes. The arithmetic is exact for the chosen base. Rounding is only for display.
How do I handle binary inputs?
If your source is in MiB/GiB, convert to bytes first (multiply by the binary byte count), then divide by 1,000,000 to get MB. This preserves exactness and avoids base confusion.
Sources & citations
- NIST — Guide for the Use of the International System of Units (SI) — https://www.nist.gov/publications/guide-use-international-system-units-si
- International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) — standardization of binary prefixes — https://www.iec.ch
- IEEE / Standards organizations — guidance on units and prefixes — https://standards.ieee.org
- IEC 80000-13:2008 — Information science and technology — https://www.iso.org/standard/31898.html
- NIST SP 811 — Guide for the Use of the International System of Units — https://www.nist.gov/pml/special-publication-811
Further resources
Related tools
Versioning & Change Control
Audit record (versions, QA runs, reviewer sign-off, and evidence).
Record ID: ffe47f1fd98dWhat changed (latest)
v1.0.0 • 2025-11-01 • MINOR
Initial publication and governance baseline.
Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.
Public QA status
PASS — golden 25 + edge 120
Last run: 2026-01-23 • Run: golden-edge-2026-01-23
Versioning & Change Control
Audit record (versions, QA runs, reviewer sign-off, and evidence).
What changed (latest)
v1.0.0 • 2025-11-01 • MINOR
Initial publication and governance baseline.
Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.
Public QA status
PASS — golden 25 + edge 120
Last run: 2026-01-23 • Run: golden-edge-2026-01-23
Engine
v1.0.0
Data
Baseline (no external datasets)
Content
v1.0.0
UI
v1.0.0
Governance
Last updated: Nov 1, 2025
Reviewed by: Fidamen Standards Committee (Review board)
Credentials: Internal QA
Risk level: low
Reviewer profile (entity)
Fidamen Standards Committee
Review board
Internal QA
Entity ID: https://fidamen.com/reviewers/fidamen-standards-committee#person
Semantic versioning
- MAJOR: Calculation outputs can change for the same inputs (formula, rounding policy, assumptions).
- MINOR: New features or fields that do not change existing outputs for the same inputs.
- PATCH: Bug fixes, copy edits, or accessibility changes that do not change intended outputs except for previously incorrect cases.
Review protocol
- Verify formulas and unit definitions against primary standards or datasets.
- Run golden-case regression suite and edge-case suite.
- Record reviewer sign-off with credentials and scope.
- Document assumptions, limitations, and jurisdiction applicability.
Assumptions & limitations
- Uses exact unit definitions from the Fidamen conversion library.
- Internal calculations use double precision; display rounding follows the unit's configured decimal places.
- Not a substitute for calibrated instruments in regulated contexts.
- Jurisdiction-specific rules may require official guidance.
Change log
v1.0.0 • 2025-11-01 • MINOR
Initial publication and governance baseline.
Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.
Areas: engine, content, ui • Reviewer: Fidamen Standards Committee • Entry ID: 0196cd66048f