⭐ Starlight Tools / Timestamp Converter

Timestamp Converter (UNIX ↔ Date)

Enter a UNIX timestamp or a date and convert between the two formats.

Result:

Understanding Timestamps and Dates

A **UNIX timestamp** (also known as Epoch time) is a system for describing a point in time, representing the number of seconds or milliseconds that have elapsed since the Unix Epoch, which is January 1, 1970, at 00:00:00 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Why are UNIX Timestamps Used?

  • Simplicity: They are single numerical values, making them easy to store, compare, and manipulate in databases and programming.
  • Universality: They are timezone-independent. A UNIX timestamp represents the same global moment in time, regardless of where it's being viewed, making them ideal for cross-system and international data exchange.
  • Efficiency: Computers find it easier to work with a single number than with complex date and time strings that include time zones, daylight saving rules, and formatting variations.

Seconds vs. Milliseconds

UNIX timestamps can be represented in seconds or milliseconds:

  • Seconds: The original UNIX timestamp format, representing the number of seconds since the Epoch. Typically a 10-digit number (e.g., `1678886400`).
  • Milliseconds: Often used in JavaScript and other web technologies, representing the number of milliseconds since the Epoch. This is a 13-digit number (e.g., `1678886400000`). This tool supports both.

Human-Readable Dates

Human-readable dates are the formats we commonly use (e.g., "March 15, 2023 12:00:00 PM GMT"). While easy for humans to understand, they can be ambiguous due to timezones and varying formats. This tool aims to provide a clear conversion between these two representations.

How This Tool Works

This Timestamp Converter operates entirely client-side within your browser. No data is sent to a server, ensuring your privacy. It uses JavaScript's built-in `Date` object to perform the conversions:

  • Timestamp to Date: The tool takes the numerical timestamp, interprets it as milliseconds (if 13 digits) or seconds (if 10 digits, then converts to milliseconds), and creates a `Date` object, which is then formatted for display.
  • Date to Timestamp: It attempts to parse the human-readable date string you provide into a `Date` object and then extracts its millisecond or second timestamp. For best results, use standard date formats.