How to convert a Unix timestamp
- Paste the timestamp: 13 digits is taken as milliseconds and 10 digits as seconds.
- See the date in UTC, in ISO 8601 format and in your local time.
- To go the other way, pick a date and time and copy the seconds or milliseconds.
- “Use the current time” loads the present moment into both converters.
What is Unix time
Unix time (or epoch) counts the seconds elapsed since January 1, 1970 at 00:00:00 UTC. It's the most common way to store dates in databases, logs and APIs, because it's a single number that doesn't depend on the time zone.
Many systems, such as JavaScript, use milliseconds instead of seconds. That's why a 10-digit timestamp is usually in seconds and a 13-digit one in milliseconds.
The UTC result is the same all over the world; the local time depends on the time zone set on your device.
Things to keep in mind
- Values with 11 or more digits are read as milliseconds; if your timestamp in seconds is for a very distant date, it can be misread.
- The date you enter is interpreted in your device's time zone.
- It doesn't account for leap seconds: Unix time ignores them.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Unix timestamp?
It's the number of seconds that have passed since January 1, 1970 at 00:00 UTC.
How do I know if it's in seconds or milliseconds?
With 10 digits it's in seconds; with 13, in milliseconds. The tool detects it and tells you how it interpreted it.
What is the year 2038 problem?
Systems that store Unix time in 32 bits stop working on January 19, 2038. 64-bit systems don't have that problem.
Does it work with dates before 1970?
Yes, using negative numbers.
Is it free?
Yes, it's free, needs no sign-up and works right in your browser.