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Percent Error Calculator

Result

Percent Error2
Absolute Error |E − T|0.2
Relative Error0.02
Signed Error (E − T)-0.2
↗ Math

Percent Error Calculator — free online calculator.

Formula

% Error = |Experimental − Theoretical| / |Theoretical| × 100%
  • Percent Error Calculator calculates its result from Experimental (Measured) Value, Theoretical (Accepted) Value. It uses the formula % Error = |Experimental − Theoretical| / |Theoretical| × 100%. Change any input to recalculate the result instantly.
  • The main inputs are Experimental (Measured) Value, Theoretical (Accepted) Value. Enter them in the units and format shown in the calculator.
  • Keep comparable quantities in compatible units whenever the formula combines or compares them.
  • Changing any input above recalculates the result with the same calculation engine used by this page.

Example: Percent Error

Inputs
  • Experimental (Measured) Value: 9.8
  • Theoretical (Accepted) Value: 10

Experimental 9.8 versus accepted 10: signed error −0.2, absolute error 0.2, relative error 0.02, percent error 2%.

Sample result: Calculating…

Frequently asked questions

What does the Percent Error calculate?

Percent Error Calculator — free online calculator.

Which values should I enter?

Enter Experimental (Measured) Value, Theoretical (Accepted) Value using the units and format shown beside each field.

What formula does this calculator use?

The calculator uses the following relationship: % Error = |Experimental − Theoretical| / |Theoretical| × 100%.

Why might my result differ from another source?

Results can differ when another source uses different units, rounding rules, conventions or assumptions. Compare the inputs and definitions before comparing results.

Does the result update automatically?

Yes. Changing an input updates the result using the same calculation engine shown on this page.

Page information

Updated: October 10, 2026