Dealing with UNIX timestamps like `1672531200` can be confusing. Our free Timestamp to Date Converter is a simple two-way tool that makes it easy to translate these cryptic numbers into human-readable dates, and convert any date back into its corresponding timestamp, right in your browser.

How to Use Our Timestamp Converter

Our tool provides a simple, two-way conversion process that updates in real-time.

To Convert a Timestamp to a Date:

1. Type or paste a UNIX timestamp into the first input box. The tool accepts both seconds (a 10-digit number) and milliseconds (a 13-digit number).
2. The human-readable date will appear instantly in the result box below, showing both UTC and your local timezone.

To Convert a Date to a Timestamp:

1. Use the date and time picker in the second section to choose a specific date.
2. The corresponding timestamp in both milliseconds and seconds will appear instantly in the result box.

You can also click the "Get Current Timestamp & Date" button to populate both fields with the current time.

Example Conversion

A famous timestamp in computing history is `0`, which represents the beginning of the UNIX epoch.

Timestamp Input:

0

Date Output (UTC):

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

What is a UNIX Timestamp?

A UNIX Timestamp (also known as Epoch time, POSIX time, or UNIX Epoch time) is a system for describing a point in time. It is the number of seconds that have elapsed since the UNIX Epoch, which started at `00:00:00 UTC on 1 January 1970`.

Why is this format used?

• Simplicity: Representing time as a single, large number makes it very easy for computer systems to store, sort, and perform calculations with dates. Subtracting one timestamp from another gives you the exact duration in seconds between two points in time.
• Universality: The timestamp is based on Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), so it is independent of timezones. This makes it an unambiguous standard for servers and systems operating around the world.
• Language Agnostic: It is a purely numerical format, avoiding the complexities of different date formatting conventions (e.g., MM/DD/YYYY vs. DD/MM/YYYY).

Developers frequently use timestamps for logging events, storing dates in databases, and handling time in APIs. Our tool is designed to bridge the gap between this computer-friendly format and the human-readable dates we use every day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between a timestamp in seconds and milliseconds?

A standard UNIX timestamp is in seconds. However, many programming languages and systems (like JavaScript) work with milliseconds to provide greater precision. A millisecond timestamp is simply the standard timestamp multiplied by 1000. Our tool automatically detects whether your input is likely in seconds (10 digits) or milliseconds (13 digits) and handles the conversion correctly.

Q2: What is the "Year 2038 Problem"?

The "Year 2038 Problem" is a potential issue for computer systems that store the UNIX timestamp as a signed 32-bit integer. On January 19, 2038, at 03:14:07 UTC, this integer will overflow, and the number will wrap around to become negative, which systems might interpret as a date in 1901. Most modern systems have already switched to using 64-bit integers for timestamps, which effectively solves this problem for the foreseeable future.

Q3: Why does the local time result look different from the UTC result?

Your local time includes an offset based on your geographic timezone and any Daylight Saving Time rules that may be in effect. UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) is the global time standard with no offset. The tool shows both so you can see the absolute time (UTC) and how it translates to your specific location.