In this article, we’ll show you how to convert data transfer rates from kilobits per second (Kbps) to bytes per second (B/s or Bps). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of Kbps and B/s
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions and differences between Kbps and B/s. 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 bytes per second (B/s)?
A Byte per second (B/s) is a unit of measurement used to indicate data transfer rates when transferring data between internal drives or computers over a local network. Each byte transferred represents 8 bits of data (1 byte = 8 bits), corresponding to one ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) character.
So, transferring a text file that contains 800 characters at a rate of 100 B/s will take approximately 8 seconds to complete.
It has symbols or abbreviations such as Bps, B/s, or byte/s.
One byte per second equals eight bits per second (1 B/s = 8 bps), or 8 × 10-3 Kbps or 0.008 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)[1] 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 125 B/s (1,000 ÷ 8).
Kbps to B/s 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 data transfer rate (R) from Kbps to B/s: R(B/s) = R(Kbps) × 125
Or remember the Kbps-to-Bps conversion factor: 1 Kbps = 125 B/s
Examples
Now, let's take a look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from kilobits to bytes per second (Kbps to B/s).
Convert 256 Kbps to B/s
Write down 256 Kbps and multiply it by the Kbps-to-Bps conversion factor: 125 to get the rate value R in B/s:
So, 256 kilobits per second is equal to 32,000 bytes per second.
Alternatively, you can use our calculator by entering 256 into the Kbps box, and you instantly get the rate in Bps or B/s, in this case, 32,000 Bps.
Kbps to B/s conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting data rates from kilobits per second (Kbps) to bytes per second (B/s). It covers a range from 0.1 Kbps to 1,000 Kbps, allowing for easy and quick conversions between these units of measurement.
| Kilobits per second | Bytes per second |
|---|---|
| 0.1 Kbps | 12.5 B/s |
| 0.5 Kbps | 62.5 B/s |
| 1 Kbps | 125 B/s |
| 2 Kbps | 250 B/s |
| 4 Kbps | 500 B/s |
| 5 Kbps | 625 B/s |
| 10 Kbps | 1,250 B/s |
| 20 Kbps | 2,500 B/s |
| 30 Kbps | 3,750 B/s |
| 40 Kbps | 5,000 B/s |
| 50 Kbps | 6,250 B/s |
| 60 Kbps | 7,500 B/s |
| 70 Kbps | 8,750 B/s |
| 80 Kbps | 10,000 B/s |
| 90 Kbps | 11,250 B/s |
| 100 Kbps | 12,500 B/s |
| 200 Kbps | 25,000 B/s |
| 500 Kbps | 62,500 B/s |
| 800 Kbps | 100,000 B/s |
| 1000 Kbps | 125,000 B/s |
FAQs
Is 1 Kbps or 1 B/s faster?
A kilobit per second (Kbps) is 125 times faster than a byte per second (B/s). 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 B/s = 8 bits/s = 8 bps1 Kbps = 1,000 ÷ 8 = 125 B/s
How to convert from Kbps to B/s?
To convert a data transfer rate from kilobits per second (Kbps) to bytes per second (B/s), follow the simple steps below:
- Write down the rate value in
kilobits per second (Kbps). - Multiply it by the value of a
Kbps-to-Bpsconversion factor:125. - The result from multiplication is the value of the transfer rate in
bytes per second (B/s).
You now know how to convert data transfer rate from kilobits per second (Kbps) to bytes per second (B/s). 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.
