Force Converter

About Force Converter

Force conversion: 1 Newton = 0.225 lbf = 100,000 dynes. 1 kgf = 9.807 N.

How to use this calculator

1. Enter the force value you want to convert.
2. Choose the starting unit, such as N, lbf, dyn, or kgf.
3. Choose the target unit you want the answer in.
4. Read the converted value and, if needed, check the step-by-step explanation.

The formula explained

This converter uses known unit relationships, such as \(1\text{ N} = 0.22481\text{ lbf}\), to change a force from one unit system to another. The calculator rescales the value using the matching conversion factor for the units you select.

• F = the force value
• \(\text{N}\) = newtons, the SI unit of force
• \(\text{lbf}\) = pounds-force
• \(\text{dyn}\) = dynes
• \(\text{kgf}\) = kilogram-force

Step by step method

1. Identify the starting unit and the target unit.
2. Multiply or divide by the correct conversion factor between those units.
3. Check that the size of the answer makes sense, because larger units should give smaller numbers and smaller units should give larger numbers.

Worked example

Problem. Convert \(10\text{ N}\) to \(\text{lbf}\).

1. Use the conversion \(1\text{ N} = 0.22481\text{ lbf}\).
2. Multiply \(10\) by \(0.22481\), so \(10\text{ N} = 2.2481\text{ lbf}\).
3. The converted force is \(2.2481\text{ lbf}\).

Tips and common mistakes

• Be careful with unit names, because \(\text{N}\), \(\text{lbf}\), \(\text{dyn}\), and \(\text{kgf}\) are not interchangeable.
• If your answer seems too large or too small, check whether you used the correct direction for the conversion factor.

Frequently asked questions