PDT vs. EST: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Published on December 5, 2023
PDT (Pacific Daylight Time) is UTC-7, used in the Western US during daylight saving time, while EST (Eastern Standard Time) is UTC-5, used in the Eastern US during standard time.
Key Differences
PDT, or Pacific Daylight Time, is observed in the Pacific Time Zone of the United States during daylight saving time, typically between March and November. EST, Eastern Standard Time, is observed in the Eastern Time Zone of the United States during standard time, usually from November to March.
PDT is UTC-7, meaning it is 7 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time. EST is UTC-5, placing it 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time.
Regions observing PDT include parts of western United States and Canada. EST is observed in the eastern parts of the United States, parts of eastern Canada, and in certain countries in the Caribbean.
During daylight saving time, areas on PDT move their clocks forward by one hour, effectively shifting one hour of daylight from morning to evening. EST does not involve a daylight saving shift, but regions on Eastern Time shift to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), which is UTC-4, during daylight saving months.
The transition between PDT and standard time (Pacific Standard Time or PST) and between EST and daylight time (EDT) can affect scheduling, particularly in activities like broadcasting, travel, and international communication.
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Comparison Chart
UTC Offset
UTC-7
UTC-5
Time Zone Region
Western United States and parts of Canada
Eastern United States, parts of Canada, some Caribbean nations
Daylight Saving Shift
Observed, clocks move forward an hour
Not observed during EST; regions shift to EDT during daylight saving
Typical Observation
Between March and November
Between November and March
Impact
Affects local scheduling during daylight saving months
Affects scheduling during standard time months
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PDT and EST Definitions
PDT
PDT stands for Pacific Daylight Time, UTC-7.
The webinar starts at 10 AM PDT.
EST
EST is used in the eastern parts of the US and Canada.
Miami follows EST in the winter months.
PDT
PDT shifts clocks forward by one hour from standard time.
We'll adjust our clocks for PDT this weekend.
EST
EST is observed in the Eastern Time Zone during standard time.
New York is on EST in the winter.
PDT
PDT affects regions in western North America.
Seattle switches to PDT in March.
EST
EST does not involve daylight saving time.
During standard time, we're on EST, not EDT.
PDT
PDT is the daylight saving time in the Pacific Time Zone.
Los Angeles operates on PDT during the summer.
EST
EST stands for Eastern Standard Time, UTC-5.
The meeting is scheduled for 9 AM EST.
PDT
PDT is used in certain parts of the United States and Canada.
Most of California is on PDT in the summer.
EST
EST affects scheduling in certain US states and Canadian provinces.
The TV show airs at 8 PM EST in Toronto.
EST
(obsolete) Grace; favour.
EST
Abbreviation of established
EST
Init of w:Erhard Seminars Training, a course intended to promote satisfaction with life in the present moment, as opposed to strivings to attain it.
EST
East.
EST
Standard time in the 5th time zone west of Greenwich, reckoned at the 75th meridian; used in the eastern United States
FAQs
Where is PDT used?
PDT is used in parts of the Western United States and Canada during daylight saving time.
When is PDT observed?
PDT is observed during the summer months when daylight saving time is in effect, typically from March to November.
When is EST observed?
EST is observed during the winter months, typically from November to March.
What is the UTC offset for EST?
The UTC offset for EST is UTC -5.
Where is EST used?
EST is used in the Eastern part of the United States and Canada during the standard time period.
What is the time difference between PDT and EST?
PDT is 3 hours behind EST.
What is the UTC offset for PDT?
The UTC offset for PDT is UTC -7.
What does PDT stand for?
PDT stands for Pacific Daylight Time.
What does EST stand for?
EST stands for Eastern Standard Time.
Is PDT the same as Pacific Standard Time (PST)?
No, PDT is the daylight saving time version of PST, which is one hour ahead of PST.
Does EST change during daylight saving time?
Yes, during daylight saving time, EST changes to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
Do all regions in the PDT zone observe daylight saving time?
Most regions in the PDT zone observe daylight saving time, but there are exceptions, like parts of Arizona.
Are there any regions that use EST all year round?
Yes, some regions, like parts of Indiana and Arizona, use EST throughout the year.
How do I convert PDT to EST?
To convert PDT to EST, add 3 hours to the current PDT time.
Are PDT and EST observed internationally?
While PDT and EST are primarily North American time zones, similar daylight saving practices are observed in various forms worldwide.
What is the main purpose of EST?
The main purpose of EST is to standardize time during the winter months in the Eastern time zone.
How do I convert EST to PDT?
To convert EST to PDT, subtract 3 hours from the current EST time.
How does the switch to PDT affect scheduling?
The switch to PDT means setting clocks forward by one hour, potentially affecting meetings and schedules with regions outside PDT.
What is the main purpose of PDT?
The main purpose of PDT is to make better use of daylight during the summer months.
How does the switch to EST from daylight saving time affect daily life?
The switch to EST from EDT means setting clocks back by one hour, impacting daylight hours and possibly daily routines.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
