Fidamen

Convert Bytes to Kibibytes - Data Storage Converter

This tool converts a quantity in bytes into kibibytes (KiB) using the IEC/IEEE binary-prefix definition: 1 KiB = 2^10 = 1024 bytes. Use KiB when you need unambiguous binary multiples in technical, engineering, or procurement contexts.

The converter is intended for software engineers, system administrators, analysts, and technical writers who require precise, standards-aligned conversions and clear guidance on differences between binary and decimal storage units.

Updated Nov 22, 2025QA PASS — golden 25 / edge 120Run golden-edge-2026-01-23

Governance

Record 07483765985b • Reviewed by Fidamen Standards Committee

Interactive Converter

Convert between byte and kibibyte with precision rounding.

Quick reference table

ByteKibibyte
1 BKIB 0.00 KiB
5 BKIB 0.00 KiB
10 BKIB 0.01 KiB
25 BKIB 0.02 KiB
50 BKIB 0.05 KiB
100 BKIB 0.10 KiB

Methodology

We apply the IEC/IEEE binary-prefix definition: kibibyte (KiB) is a binary multiple equal to 2^10 bytes. The conversion is a fixed ratio and is implemented as an exact integer division or floating-point division depending on the requested precision.

For display and downstream calculations we recommend choosing precision appropriate to the context: use integer KiB when working with raw byte counts (to avoid fractional KiB), and fractional KiB (with specified decimal places) when reporting averages, throughput, or storage utilization metrics.

Worked examples

2048 bytes → 2048 ÷ 1024 = 2 KiB

1536 bytes → 1536 ÷ 1024 = 1.5 KiB

1,048,576 bytes → 1,048,576 ÷ 1024 = 1024 KiB = 1 MiB

F.A.Q.

What is the difference between KB and KiB?

KiB (kibibyte) is a binary prefix defined by IEC/IEEE equal to 1024 bytes (2^10). KB (kilobyte) is commonly used in two ways: historically as 1024 bytes in computing, and per SI as 1000 bytes in decimal usage. For unambiguous, standards-compliant communication use KiB for 1024-based counts and kB for 1000-based counts.

Why do hard drive manufacturers report different sizes than my OS?

Some manufacturers use decimal prefixes (kB = 1000 bytes, MB = 10^6 bytes) for marketing, while many operating systems and technical contexts report binary-based sizes (KiB = 1024 bytes, MiB = 1024^2 bytes). This leads to apparent discrepancies; converting consistently with the chosen prefix set resolves the difference.

How should I choose precision and rounding?

For raw storage accounting use integer bytes or integer KiB to avoid losing small amounts. For reporting (throughput, averages) choose a fixed number of decimal places (typically 1–3) and document the rounding rule. When exact totals are needed, keep values in bytes and convert only for presentation.

Can conversions overflow or lose accuracy?

If you store counts in fixed-size integer types, extremely large byte counts can overflow. Use appropriate integer width (e.g., 64-bit) or arbitrary-precision arithmetic for very large values. For floating-point conversions, be mindful of binary floating rounding; keep canonical counts in integer bytes when exactness matters.

When should I use KiB in documentation or procurement?

Use KiB (and other IEC binary prefixes like MiB, GiB) whenever clarity about binary multiples is required—technical specifications, contract language, firmware, and low-level system documentation. For consumer-facing marketing where decimal units are intended, use kB/MB with explicit definition.

Does this converter handle bits or other units?

This converter specifically converts bytes to kibibytes. To convert bits to kibibytes first convert bits to bytes (1 byte = 8 bits), then bytes to KiB using division by 1024. Use dedicated converters for other unit families to avoid mistakes.

Sources & citations

Further resources

Versioning & Change Control

Audit record (versions, QA runs, reviewer sign-off, and evidence).

Record ID: 07483765985b

What changed (latest)

v1.0.0 • 2025-11-22 • 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 22, 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 • 2025-11-22 • 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: 0a1d852a1390