What is kilogram-force?

Kilogram-force (kgf, also written kp) is a gravitational metric unit of force equal to the force exerted by one kilogram of mass under standard Earth gravity (9.80665 m/s²). It is widely used in older engineering documents, pressure gauges, and mechanical datasheets.

How many newtons equal one kilogram-force?

Exactly 9.80665 N equals 1 kgf. This is derived from the standard acceleration of gravity (g = 9.80665 m/s²) multiplied by 1 kg: F = m × g = 1 kg × 9.80665 m/s² = 9.80665 N.

Is kilogram-force the same as kilogram-weight?

Yes. Kilogram-force and kilogram-weight (kgW) are the same unit — both equal the gravitational force on a one-kilogram mass at standard gravity. The kgf notation is more common in engineering contexts.

When is kgf used instead of newtons?

Kilogram-force appears in older European and Asian engineering standards, torque wrench specs, load-cell datasheets, pressure units (kgf/cm²), and hydraulic system ratings. The SI newton has replaced kgf in most modern standards, but kgf remains common in practice.

Can I convert negative force values?

This tool accepts zero and positive values only. Force direction (sign) depends on your coordinate system and is not part of the magnitude conversion — handle sign conventions in your own calculation.

Newtons to Kilogram-force Converter

Name: Newtons to Kilogram-force Converter
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter a force value in newtons (N) and instantly get the equivalent in kilogram-force (kgf), with reverse conversion included.

Force Conversion

Newtons (N)

SI unit of force

Kilogram-force (kgf)

Gravitational metric unit of force

Result

Enter a value above to see the conversion.

Quick Reference

Newtons (N)	Kilogram-force (kgf)
1 N	0.10197 kgf
5 N	0.50986 kgf
9.807 N	1.0000 kgf
10 N	1.0197 kgf
50 N	5.0986 kgf
100 N	10.197 kgf
500 N	50.986 kgf
1000 N	101.97 kgf

Summary

Enter a force value in newtons (N) and instantly get the equivalent in kilogram-force (kgf), with reverse conversion included.

How it works

Enter a force value in newtons (N) in the top input field.
The tool divides the newton value by 9.80665 (standard gravity) to get kilogram-force.
The equivalent kgf value appears instantly in the second field.
Type in the kgf field to convert in the reverse direction (kgf to N).
Click Swap to exchange the two field values and flip direction.
Click Reset to clear both fields and start over.

Use cases

Convert spring or cable load ratings between SI and gravitational metric units.
Check mechanical press or clamping force specs that mix N and kgf.
Translate load cell output in newtons to kgf for older instrument datasheets.
Verify hydraulic cylinder force values when specs are given in kgf.
Cross-check structural load calculations between metric systems.
Convert physics textbook problems that use kgf into standard SI units.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-07-24 · Reviewed by Nham Vu