Convertor vs. Converter — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 6, 2024
"Convertor" refers to device or person that converts something, often used in technical or specific contexts. "Converter," the more common spelling, denotes device, substance, or person that converts one thing into another, widely accepted in general use.
Difference Between Convertor and Converter
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Convertor is occasionally used to describe a device, substance, or individual that changes something from one form, function, or state to another, mainly in certain technical fields or specific contexts. Whereas, converter is the preferred and more widely used term in both everyday language and technical documentation to indicate something or someone capable of performing a conversion process.
The term "converter" is more universally recognized and applied across various industries, such as electronics, automotive, and software, indicating its broader acceptance. On the other hand, "convertor" might appear in specialized documents or contexts, but its usage is considerably less frequent, emphasizing the general preference for the "converter" spelling.
In digital media, software applications often use the term "converter" for tools that change file formats, data types, or media forms. Conversely, "convertor" is less commonly seen in these contexts, reinforcing the dominance of "converter" in both the digital realm and general usage.
Educational materials and scientific publications predominantly use "converter" to describe devices or processes involved in conversion, from energy forms to digital formats. This reflects the consensus among academics and professionals on the preferred terminology, whereas "convertor" might be used more sparingly and in more specialized or localized contexts.
In everyday conversation and writing, "converter" is the term most people are familiar with, whether discussing currency converters, electrical devices, or software tools. This prevalence supports the notion that while "convertor" might be technically correct in some cases, "converter" is the universally accepted term that you're likely to encounter across most contexts.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling
Convertor
Converter
Usage Frequency
Less common, specific contexts
More common, widely used
Industries
Limited, specific technical fields
Broad, including electronics, automotive, software
Digital Media
Rarely used
Commonly used for software tools
Educational Materials
Seldom seen
Widely used in scientific publications
Compare with Definitions
Convertor
Seen in specific technical or industry contexts.
The convertor unit was essential for the operation.
Converter
A device or tool that changes one form or type to another.
She used a currency converter for her trip abroad.
Convertor
Sometimes used in specialized publications.
The journal article mentioned a novel energy convertor.
Converter
Applies to software that changes file formats or types.
The video converter software made editing easy.
Convertor
A variant spelling for a device that changes something’s form.
The plant uses a sulfur convertor for processing.
Converter
Frequently found in educational and scientific texts.
The study discussed an innovative signal converter.
Convertor
May refer to a person who changes beliefs or ideas.
He was a convertor to the new philosophy.
Converter
Preferred term in everyday language and technical writing.
He explained how the digital converter worked.
Convertor
Less commonly used in digital and software terminology.
This audio file convertor is quite outdated.
Converter
Commonly used across various industries and contexts.
The car's catalytic converter reduces emissions.
Convertor
Variant of converter.
Converter
A furnace in which pig iron is converted into steel by the Bessemer process.
Convertor
A device for changing one substance or form or state into another.
Converter
A machine that converts electric current from one kind to another.
Convertor
A device for changing one substance or form or state into another
Converter
An electronic device that converts one frequency of a radio signal to another.
Converter
A device that converts data from one code to another.
Converter
One that is employed in converting raw products into finished products.
Converter
A person or thing that converts.
Converter
(electrical engineering) A device that changes voltage or frequency, for example one that converts alternating current to direct current.
Converter
(metallurgy) A retort or furnace, used e.g. in the Bessemer process, in which molten cast iron is decarburized and converted into steel by a blast of air forced through the liquid metal.
Converter
A reaction chamber in which exhaust gases are catalytically converted to carbon dioxide
Converter
(computing) A program that converts one file format to another one, or which converts between different units of measurement, such as miles to meters.
Unit convertor
Converter
(medicine) A patient with a certain condition that subsequently develops into another condition.
Converter
A device that converts an analogue to a digital signal, or vice versa.
Converter
One who converts; one who makes converts.
Converter
A retort, used in the Bessemer process, in which molten cast iron is decarburized and converted into steel by a blast of air forced through the liquid metal.
Converter
A device for changing one substance or form or state into another
Common Curiosities
In which industries is the term "converter" commonly used?
Industries such as electronics, automotive, and software frequently use the term "converter."
Are converter and convertor interchangeable?
While they can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "converter" is the preferred and more widely recognized spelling.
What is a converter?
A device, substance, or person that changes something from one form, function, or state to another.
Can both terms be used in scientific publications?
Yes, but "converter" is far more common and broadly accepted in academic and professional circles.
Why is converter more popular than convertor?
"Converter" has become the standard spelling in English, used across a wider range of contexts and industries.
What is a convertor?
An alternative spelling for a converter, less commonly used and often found in specific contexts.
Is there a difference in meaning between convertor and converter?
There is no significant difference in meaning, though there is a preference for using "converter" in most contexts.
Which spelling should I use in technical documentation?
"Converter" is recommended for its universal recognition and acceptance in technical and general documentation.
Are there any contexts where "convertor" is preferred?
"Convertor" may be preferred in certain technical or specialized contexts, but these are relatively rare.
Can a person be referred to as a convertor/converter?
Yes, in the context of changing beliefs or ideas, though it's more common to use related terms like "convert."
Do digital media prefer one spelling over the other?
Yes, digital media and software applications predominantly use "converter" for tools and processes.
Which term is more likely to be understood in an international context?
"Converter" is more likely to be universally understood and accepted internationally.
How do educational materials treat these terms?
Educational materials mainly use "converter" to describe conversion processes and devices.
How has the usage of these terms evolved?
Over time, "converter" has become the dominant term, reflecting broader usage and acceptance across various contexts.
Is the spelling difference regional?
Not particularly; the preference for "converter" over "convertor" is widespread and not confined to specific regions.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
