Recording bytes, decimal GB, and binary GiB
The decimal GB result matches common drive-capacity labels. GiB shows the same bytes in binary units. The copies total multiplies the estimated recording size without assuming compression or deduplication between copies.
For still images captured alongside the video, the Photo Storage Calculator uses a measured average size per photograph.
The formula
Bitrate is measured in bits per second, while file size is measured in bytes. Eight bits make one byte. Multiplying the combined rate by duration gives payload size; the editable allowance adds container overhead and any planning margin you choose.
Worked example
An hour at 20 Mbps video plus 192 kbps audio contains 9.0864 GB before allowance. With 2% added, one recording is about 9.268 GB, or 8.632 GiB. Two stored copies would need about 18.536 GB. A one-hour recording with a 4.5 GB budget, no audio and no overhead allows 10 Mbps video. With 192 kbps audio the allowed video bitrate becomes 9.808 Mbps.
How to use this calculator
- Choose file size from bitrate or video bitrate for a size budget.
- Enter recording duration, video rate or per-recording budget, combined audio and overhead.
- Set stored copies and read the video rate used, one-recording size and total storage.
Average bitrate matters for variable-rate video
A codec name or resolution does not uniquely determine file size. Variable bitrate changes with scene complexity and encoder settings. Use a measured average or a target average for the intended export. A maximum bitrate gives a conservative bound only if the recording actually stays below that bound throughout.
Storage is different from recording performance
Enough gigabytes do not guarantee a card can sustain the required write speed. Camera recording modes can also impose format and capacity limits. This tool estimates space; it does not certify a device, calculate network protocol overhead, or predict quality from bitrate. The duration table keeps the same bitrate assumptions so comparisons remain consistent.
Estimate video storage or solve the video bitrate that fits a per-recording size budget
Bitrate-for-budget mode divides the per-recording byte budget by duration and the overhead multiplier, converts bytes to bits, and subtracts combined audio bitrate. Duration must be positive. The remaining video rate must be between 0.001 and one million Mbps. The budget is for one recording; stored copies multiply total storage afterward. Decimal and binary budget units are distinct. Variable bitrate and actual container overhead can change final size; this is a planning calculation, not an encoder quality recommendation.
Assumptions & limitations
What this calculation assumes
- The entered bitrate is representative over the entire recording.
What to keep in mind
- Variable bitrate, additional tracks, and container details can change the final file size.
Common questions
Should I enter Mbps or MB/s?
Enter Mbps, meaning megabits per second. Multiply a rate in decimal megabytes per second by eight to convert it.
What if my export displays a total bitrate?
Use that total in the video field and set audio to zero to avoid counting audio twice.
Sources & further reading
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