Kilogram-force to newtons (kgf to N)

The formula

N = kgf × 9.80665

Where the factor comes from — each unit by its definition, then its size in SI:

• 1 kgf = kg × gₙ (standard gravity, CODATA 2022) × m / s² = 9.80665 N
• 1 N is the SI unit of force.

Dividing the two SI sizes gives the factor: 9.80665, exact — every step above is a definition, not a measurement. The reverse factor is 0.101971621298.

Force in SI is the newton (kg·m/s²). Kilogram-force and pound-force are the weights of a kilogram and a pound at standard gravity — gravity's conventional value, not your local one.

Worked examples

• The weight of a 1 kg mass at standard gravity: 1 kgf = 9.80665 N — 1 × 9.80665 = 9.80665
• A firm push: 10.1972 kgf = 100 N — 10.1972 × 9.80665 = 100
• The weight of a 10 lb bag at standard gravity (10 lbf): 4.53592 kgf = 44.4822 N — 4.53592 × 9.80665 = 44.4822
• A towing load (5 kN): 509.858 kgf = 5,000 N — 509.858 × 9.80665 = 5,000

Frequently asked questions