Shops show discounts as percentages because they sound bigger on expensive items; comparing the amount saved helps decide whether a deal is worth it.
How to use the Percentage Discount Calculator
- Original price
- Sale price
- Every result field is editable: type into Discount percentage and Sale price plus every other field update to match.
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter the original price and the sale price – or type a percentage into the result.
Tips
- Know the difference between margin (profit ÷ price) and markup (profit ÷ cost).
- Apply successive discounts one after another – they do not simply add up.
- Check whether prices already include sales tax or VAT.
- Round prices only at the very end of the calculation.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Adding discount percentages together.
- Pricing from a target margin using the markup formula.
- Forgetting payment-processing and shipping fees.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Original price | Amount in your currency |
| Sale price | Amount in your currency |
What each result means
- Discount percentage = (1 – [Sale price]÷[Original price])×100
- You save = [Original price] – [Sale price]
Example values
How the main result changes when Sale price changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Sale price | Discount percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| 30 | 62.5 |
| 45 | 43.75 |
| 60 | 25 |
| 75 | 6.25 |
| 90 | -12.5 |
| 120 | -50 |
Formula
Discount % = (original − sale price) ÷ original × 100Sale price = original × (1 − discount %)Saving = original − sale priceWorked example
Inputs — Original price: $80; Sale price: $60.
Results — Discount percentage = 25 %; You save = $20.00.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate a discount percentage?
(Original − sale price) ÷ original × 100.
What is 25% off $80?
$60, a saving of $20.
Is a percentage discount better than a dollar discount?
Compare the actual amounts saved.
What formula does the Percentage Discount Calculator use?
Discount % = (original − sale price) ÷ original × 100.