Force Converter
Convert between newtons, kilonewtons, pound-force and kilogram-force.
Processing: This tool runs entirely in your browser. Your input and any file you open stay on your device — nothing is uploaded to a server.
How to use the force converter
- Type the amount you want to convert.
- Choose the unit you have and the unit you want.
- Read the result, or use the table showing all 7 units at once.
About this tool
A newton is the force that accelerates one kilogram at one metre per second squared. Everything else here converts against it.
The unit that causes confusion is kilogram-force, and the confusion is worth clearing up: it is not a kilogram. A kilogram is mass, which is the same on the Moon as on Earth. A kilogram-force is the weight of one kilogram under standard gravity — 9.80665 newtons — which is not. The same distinction separates pound-mass from pound-force, and mixing them is a classic source of engineering error.
Standard gravity is a defined constant rather than a measurement, which is why the conversion is exact rather than approximate.
Common uses
- Converting a load rating between metric and imperial.
- Relating a mass to the force it exerts under gravity.
- Reading a specification given in kilogram-force.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a kilogram-force the same as a kilogram?
- No. A kilogram is mass and is the same everywhere; a kilogram-force is the weight of that mass under standard gravity, 9.80665 newtons.
- How many newtons is a pound-force?
- 4.4482216152605 exactly, since both the pound and standard gravity are defined constants.
Related tools
Torque Converter
Convert between newton metres, pound-feet, pound-inches and kilogram metres.
Weight Converter
Convert between grams, kilograms, tonnes, ounces, pounds, stones and tons.
Pressure Converter
Convert between pascals, bar, psi, atmospheres, torr and mmHg.
Energy Converter
Convert between joules, kilowatt hours, calories, food Calories and BTU.