Upload time calculator
How long does it take to upload photos, videos or a backup? Enter size and connection speed.
Note: this is the UPLOAD speed, not the download. On many connections it is much lower – check your contract or a speed test.
Pure transfer time
17 min 54 s
Calculated with 1 GB = 1,024 MB and without a buffer. In practice it usually takes a bit longer because the connection fluctuates and control data travels along.
In your account, directly with your SafeDoc files: Pre-filled with the size of your storage and your largest file.
What it is good for
Before you upload a whole year of photos or a video project to the cloud, a quick estimate is worth it: does it fit into a lunch break, or should the computer run overnight?
- Check your upload speed – in your contract or with a speed test.
- For large amounts: connect the computer by cable instead of Wi-Fi.
- Avoid big downloads or video calls while uploading.
Frequently asked questions
How is the upload time calculated?
File size in bytes times 8 (bits per byte) divided by the speed in bits per second. 1 GB at 10 Mbit/s is therefore about 14 minutes and 19 seconds.
Why is my upload so much slower than my download?
On DSL and cable connections the upload rate is usually only a fraction of the download rate. A connection with 250 Mbit/s download often has only 40 Mbit/s upload. Fibre is more often equally fast in both directions.
Why does it take longer in practice than calculated?
The connection fluctuates, Wi-Fi slows things down, other devices in the house share it, and every transfer includes control data. Allow an extra 10 to 20 per cent.
What is the difference between MB and Mbit?
A byte has 8 bits. File sizes are given in bytes (MB, GB), connections in bits per second (Mbit/s). 100 Mbit/s is therefore at most 12.5 MB per second.
What happens if the connection drops?
That depends on the service. SafeDoc uploads large files in parts; if a part fails, only that part is retried – as long as the browser tab stays open.
More free tools
Large uploads in SafeDoc: files go up in parts, and a failed part is retried on its own. Single files up to 2 GB on the free plan, up to 100 GB depending on the plan.
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