4gigabyte

4gigabyte is a term used in computing to denote a data capacity of four gigabytes. It can refer to either 4,000,000,000 bytes (decimal gigabytes) or 4,294,967,296 bytes, which corresponds to 4 gibibytes (GiB) in binary terms. Because many devices and software report capacity in decimal gigabytes, while operating systems calculate in binary units, the exact usable amount can vary slightly.

In usage, 4gigabyte appears as a generic descriptor for memory or storage size. It is also encountered as a brand name or product line in some consumer electronics, such as USB flash drives or memory modules, where the label emphasizes a four-gigabyte capacity rather than a specific technology or performance tier. The term is not tied to a single company or standardized specification.

Technical note: The distinction between gigabytes (GB) and gibibytes (GiB) is a common source of confusion. 4 GiB equals about 4.29 GB, while a decimal 4 GB equals 4,000,000,000 bytes. Modern operating systems typically display capacities using binary units internally but label hardware with decimal abbreviations, contributing to apparent discrepancies.

See also: gigabyte, gibibyte, memory module, USB flash drive, data storage.