In this article, we’ll show you how to convert data transfer rates from kilobits per second (Kbps) to bits per second (bps). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of Kbps and bps
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions and differences between Kbps
and bps
. Understanding these terms will allow you to perform conversions confidently.
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 is 0.001 kilobits per second (Kbps)
.
What is kilobits per second (Kbps)?
A kilobit per second (Kbps
) is a unit of measurement for data transfer rates used when transferring data over the internet. 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 1,000 bits per second (bps)
.
Kbps to bps 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.
Multiplication formula for converting from Kbps to bps: n bps = n Kbps × 1,000
Scientific notion formula: Kbps = bps × 103
Or remember the Kbps-to-bps
conversion factor: 1 Kbps = 1,000 bps
Examples
Now, let's take a look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from kilobit to bit per second (Kbps to bps).
Convert 128 Kbps to bps?
Write down 128 Kbps and multiply it by the Kbps-to-bps conversion factor: 1,000 or 103 to get bps:
So, 128 kilobits per second is equal to 128,000 bits per second.
Alternatively, you can use our calculator by entering 128
into the Kbps box, and you instantly get the rate in bps, in this case, 128,000 bps
.
Kbps to bps conversion table
Here is a conversion table from Kbit/s (Kbps) to bit/s (bps) valued from 0.1 to 1,000. Use the table for a quick reference or remember it for everyday use.
Kilobits per second | bits per second |
---|---|
0.1 Kbps | 100 bps |
0.5 Kbps | 500 bps |
1 Kbps | 1,000 bps |
2 Kbps | 2,000 bps |
4 Kbps | 4,000 bps |
5 Kbps | 5,000 bps |
10 Kbps | 10,000 bps |
20 Kbps | 20,000 bps |
30 Kbps | 30,000 bps |
40 Kbps | 40,000 bps |
50 Kbps | 50,000 bps |
60 Kbps | 60,000 bps |
70 Kbps | 70,000 bps |
80 Kbps | 80,000 bps |
90 Kbps | 90,000 bps |
100 Kbps | 100,000 bps |
200 Kbps | 200,000 bps |
500 Kbps | 500,000 bps |
800 Kbps | 800,000 bps |
1,000 Kbps | 1,000,000 bps |
FAQs
Is 1 Kbps or 1 bps faster?
A kilobit per second (Kbps) is a thousand times faster than a bit per second (bps). A bit
is the base unit of data storage in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), while a Kbps equals 1,000
or 1×103 bit/s
.
How to convert from Kbps to bps?
To convert a data transfer rate from kilobits per second (Kbps) to bits per second (bps), follow the simple steps below:
- Write down the rate value in
kilobits per second (Kbps)
. - Multiply it by the value of a
Kbps-to-bps
conversion factor:1,000
. - The result from multiplication is the value of the transfer rate in
bits per second (bps)
.
You now know how to convert data transfer rate from kilobits per second (Kbps) to bits per second (bps). 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.