Technology & Computing
Huffman Coding Compression Ratio & Entropy Calculator
Estimate Shannon entropy and Huffman compression ratio for a symbol set versus fixed-length encoding.
Your inputs
Change any value to update the result instantly.
Compression ratio
1.2
Fixed-length encoding size
3,750 bytes
Huffman-coded estimated size
3,125 bytes
Space saving
16.6667%
Huffman coding approaches the entropy limit for symbol-by-symbol coding; actual results depend on how closely code lengths match true probabilities.
Formula and working
Entropy (bits/symbol) = −Σ p×log2(p); Fixed-length bits = ceil(log2(symbol count)); Compression ratio = fixed bits ÷ entropy
- 1
Collect the inputs
Number of distinct symbols = 8; Measured/estimated entropy (bits/symbol) = 2.5; Total symbols in the message = 10,000
- 2
Apply the formula
Entropy (bits/symbol) = −Σ p×log2(p); Fixed-length bits = ceil(log2(symbol count)); Compression ratio = fixed bits ÷ entropy
- 3
Result
Compression ratio = 1.2
Frequently asked questions
Important limitation
This is an educational estimate based only on the values and formula shown. Verify current rates, rules, units, and professional standards before relying on the result. It is not personalized financial or investment advice.
Report a mistake or request an improvement
Tell us if a formula, unit, explanation, or result needs attention. Your message will include this calculator’s name and page.
Related calculators
Run-Length Encoding Compression Efficiency Calculator
Estimate the compressed size and efficiency of run-length encoding (RLE) given run statistics.
Shannon-Hartley Channel Capacity Calculator
Calculate the theoretical maximum data rate of a noisy communication channel using the Shannon-Hartley theorem.
Antenna Gain to EIRP Calculator
Calculate effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) from transmitter power, cable loss, and antenna gain.
Fresnel Zone Clearance Radius Calculator (60% Rule)
Calculate the first Fresnel zone radius at midpoint and the recommended 60% clearance for a wireless link.
Gaming Mouse eDPI & 360° Turn Distance Calculator
Calculate effective DPI (eDPI) from mouse DPI and in-game sensitivity, and the physical mouse distance for a 360° turn.
Image Aspect Ratio, DPI & Megapixel Calculator
Calculate an image's aspect ratio, total megapixels, and physical print size at a given DPI.