Binary Arithmetic Explained: Adding, Subtracting and Multiplying in Base 2
Binary maths follows the same ideas as decimal, with fewer digits. This guide walks through binary addition, subtraction and multiplication.
What is the Binary Calculator?
Binary is the base-2 system computers use, with only the digits 0 and 1. This tool checks that both inputs are genuine binary numbers, performs the chosen operation, and shows the result in binary with its decimal value for checking. It works on whole binary numbers; fractions are not supported, and very long inputs may lose precision. A negative subtraction result is shown with a minus sign in front of the binary digits.
How to use it
- Enter the first binary number using only 0 and 1.
- Enter the second binary number.
- Choose Add, Subtract or Multiply and press Calculate.
Worked example
1010 plus 1100 in binary gives 10110, which is 22 in decimal.
What is 1010 plus 1100 in binary?
1010 is 10 and 1100 is 12, so their sum is 22, which is 10110 in binary.
Frequently asked questions
Can I enter a number containing 2?
No. Binary only allows 0 and 1, so any other digit is rejected with an error.
What happens when subtraction goes negative?
The result is shown with a minus sign in front of the binary digits, together with the negative decimal value.