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DECIMAL Function
Summary
The DECIMAL function converts a text representation of a number from any base (2-36) into its decimal (base 10) equivalent. Perfect for handling hexadecimal, binary, or custom base conversions directly in Excel formulas.
Syntax
DECIMAL(text, radix)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| text | Text |
Yes | The alphanumeric string to convert from base radix to decimal |
| radix | Number |
Yes | Integer between 2 and 36 specifying the input base |
Using the DECIMAL Function
Use DECIMAL when working with numbers in different bases like programming, cryptography, or data analysis requiring base conversion. It processes the positional value system where each digit's value depends on its position and the base.
Common DECIMAL Examples
Hexadecimal to Decimal
=DECIMAL("FF",16)Converts hex FF (base 16) to decimal 255. Calculates as (15×16¹)+(15×16⁰). Verified by =HEX2DEC("FF").
Binary to Decimal
=DECIMAL("111",2)Converts binary 111 (base 2) to decimal 7. Calculates as (1×2²)+(1×2¹)+(1×2⁰). Verified by =BIN2DEC("111").
Base 36 Conversion
=DECIMAL("zap",36)Converts base 36 "zap" to decimal 45745. Where z=35, a=10, p=25: (35×36²)+(10×36¹)+(25×36⁰).
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#NUM!
Cause: Radix outside 2-36 range or invalid characters in text for given radix
Solution: Ensure radix is integer 2-36 and text uses valid digits for that base
#VALUE!
Cause: Non-numeric radix or text exceeds 255 characters
Solution: Provide integer radix and text under 255 chars
Notes
- Text can mix numbers and letters valid for the radix
- For radix >10: 0-9 then A=10, B=11, ..., Z=35
- Numbers read right-to-left (least to most significant)
- Use companion functions like BASE() for decimal-to-other conversions
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in: Excel 2010 and earlier
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2013+