In this article, we’ll show you how to convert data transfer rates from bits per second (bps) to kilobits per second (Kbps). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of bps and Kbps
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions and differences between bps and Kbps. Understanding these terms will allow you to perform conversions confidently.
Data transfer rates utilize International System of Units (SI) prefixes to simplify measuring and comparing. This standardization helps in conversions and understanding data transfer.
The table below shows all the SI prefixes and the associated symbols, multipliers, and colloquials.
What is bits per second (bps)?
A bit per second (bps) is the smallest unit to measure data transfer rates[1]. It can only represent two possible values: 0 or 1. It has symbols or abbreviations such as bps, b/s, or bit/s.
One bit per second equals 0.001 kilobits per second (Kbps) or 1×10-3 Kbps or 1e-3 Kbps.
What is kilobits per second (Kbps)?
A Kilobit per second (Kbps) is a unit of measurement for data transfer rates used when streaming or transferring data over the internet or network via a slow connection such as 2G mobile network, dial-up, or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL).
It is part of the International System of Units (SI)[2] and uses decimal multiples of bits (103). It has symbols or abbreviations such as Kbps, Kb/s, Kbit/s, or Kilobit/s.
One kilobit per second equals one thousand bits per second or 1,000 bps or 103 bps.
bps to Kbps formula
Let’s take a closer look at the conversion formula so you can carry out these conversions independently, whether you're using a calculator or doing it manually with pencil and paper.
Fraction formula for converting from bps to Kbps: n Kbps = n bps ÷ 1,000
Decimal formula: Kbps = bps × 0.001
Scientific notion formula: Kbps = 1 × 10-3 bps
Or remember the bps-to-Kbps conversion factor: 1 bps = 0.001 Kbps
Examples
Now, let's take a look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from bits per second to kilobits per second (bps to Kbps).
Convert 32 bps to Kbps
Write down 32 bps and multiply it by the bps-to-Kbps conversion factor: 0.001 or 10-3 to get the rate value in Kbps:
So, 32 bits per second is equal to 0.032 kilobits per second.
Alternatively, you can use our calculator by entering 32 into the bps box, and you instantly get the rate value in Kbps, in this case, 0.032 Kbps.
bps to Kbps conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting data rates from bits per second (bps) to kilobits per second (Kbps). It covers a range from 0.1 bps to 1,000 bps, allowing for easy and quick conversions between these units of measurement.
| bits per second | Kilobits per second |
|---|---|
| 0.1 bps | 0.0001 Kbps |
| 0.5 bps | 0.0005 Kbps |
| 1 bps | 0.001 Kbps |
| 2 bps | 0.002 Kbps |
| 4 bps | 0.004 Kbps |
| 5 bps | 0.005 Kbps |
| 10 bps | 0.01 Kbps |
| 20 bps | 0.02 Kbps |
| 30 bps | 0.03 Kbps |
| 40 bps | 0.04 Kbps |
| 50 bps | 0.05 Kbps |
| 60 bps | 0.06 Kbps |
| 70 bps | 0.07 Kbps |
| 80 bps | 0.08 Kbps |
| 90 bps | 0.09 Kbps |
| 100 bps | 0.1 Kbps |
| 200 bps | 0.2 Kbps |
| 500 bps | 0.5 Kbps |
| 800 bps | 0.8 Kbps |
| 1,000 bps | 1 Kbps |
FAQs
Is 1 bps or 1 Kbps faster?
A Kilobit per second (Kbps) is a thousand times faster than a bit per second (bps). A bit per second (bps) is the smallest unit for measuring data transfer rates. Here are the relationships between the units:
1 Kbps = 1 × 103 bps = 1,000 bps1 bps = 1 × 10-3 Kbps = 0.001 Kbps
How to convert from bps to Kbps?
To convert a data transfer rate from bits per second (bps) to Kilobits per second (Kbps), follow the simple steps below:
- Write down the rate value in
bits per second (bps). - Multiply it by the value of a
bps-to-Kbpsconversion factor:0.001or10-3or1e-3. - The result from multiplication is the value of the transfer rate in
kilobits per second (Kbps).
You now know how to convert data transfer rate from bits per second (bps) to Kilobits per second (Kbps). You can quickly use our calculator to convert between the rate units to save time for future calculations.
For further understanding, check our data storage converter page to learn more about the differences between decimal and binary units of data storage.
