Guide
About this unix timestamp converter
The Unix timestamp converter translates between an epoch value and readable dates. It accepts seconds or milliseconds, can auto-detect the likely unit, formats results in a selected timezone, and also converts date strings back to epoch seconds and milliseconds.
How to use the unix timestamp converter
- 1.Choose Epoch to Human or Human to Epoch.
- 2.Enter a timestamp or date string and select the unit and timezone when applicable.
- 3.Review the ISO 8601, UTC, localized, relative, seconds, and milliseconds representations.
Important details
Seconds versus milliseconds
Unix time is traditionally measured in seconds since 1970-01-01T00:00:00Z, while JavaScript and many APIs use milliseconds. A unit mismatch produces a date that is thousands of years away or unexpectedly close to 1970.
Be explicit about timezones
An ISO 8601 value ending in Z is UTC, and an explicit numeric offset identifies another zone. A date string without a timezone may be interpreted using the browser’s local timezone, so include Z or an offset when the instant must be unambiguous.
Frequently asked questions
Do Unix timestamps contain timezone information?
No. A timestamp identifies an instant. A timezone is applied only when that instant is formatted for display.
Why does my date appear in 1970?
The value may be milliseconds interpreted as seconds, seconds interpreted as milliseconds, or a small relative duration rather than a complete epoch timestamp.
References: ISO 8601 date and time format