Kilogram-force to pound-force (kgf to lbf)

The formula

lbf = kgf × 2.204622622

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 lbf = lb × gₙ (standard gravity, CODATA 2022) × m / s² = 4.44822161526 N

Dividing the two SI sizes gives the factor: 2.20462262185 (rounded for display; the underlying ratio is fixed by the definitions). The reverse factor is 0.45359237.

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 = 2.20462 lbf — 1 × 2.204622622 = 2.20462
• A firm push (100 N): 10.1972 kgf = 22.4809 lbf — 10.1972 × 2.204622622 = 22.4809
• The weight of a 10 lb bag at standard gravity: 4.53592 kgf = 10 lbf — 4.53592 × 2.204622622 = 10
• A towing load (5 kN): 509.858 kgf = 1,124.04 lbf — 509.858 × 2.204622622 = 1,124.04

Frequently asked questions