Kilogram-force under standard gravity.
Kilogram-forces to Centinewtons Converter — kgf to cN
Convert Kilogram-force (kgf) to Centinewton (cN) using the exact conversion factor (1 kilogram-force = 980.665 centinewton). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, and common uses.
Kilogram-forces to Centinewtons converter
Converter
Force Converter
Convert newtons, dynes, pound-force, kilogram-force, kips, and ounce-force.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
Centinewton is 0.01 newton units.
Result = input x 9.80665 / 0.01.
Force uses the newton as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Kilogram-forces to Centinewtons
Kilogram-force and Centinewton both measure force, and the conversion matters whenever an SI-trained engineer needs to compare notes with a US-trained one, or vice versa. Kilogram-force is most often used for appears on some older or legacy engineering and mechanical specifications, particularly torque wrenches and spring-force ratings, predating wider adoption of the newton.
Formula
centinewtons = kilogram-forces × 980.665
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 kilogram-force equals 9.80665 base units, and 1 centinewton equals 0.01 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct kilogram-force-to-centinewton factor of 980.665.
Simple example
1 kgf × 980.665 = 980.665 cN
1 kilogram-force = 980.665 centinewtons.
Real-world example
10 kgf × 980.665 = 9,806.65 cN
10 kilogram-forces = 9,806.65 centinewtons.
Conversion table
| Kilogram-force (kgf) | Centinewton (cN) |
|---|---|
| 1 kgf | 980.665 cN |
| 5 kgf | 4,903.325 cN |
| 10 kgf | 9,806.65 cN |
| 50 kgf | 49,033.25 cN |
| 100 kgf | 98,066.5 cN |
| 1,000 kgf | 980,665 cN |
Reverse conversion: Centinewton to Kilogram-force
980.665 cN × 0.001019716213 = 1 kgf
980.665 centinewtons = 1 kilogram-force.
kilogram-forces = centinewtons × 0.00101971621298
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Centinewton to Kilogram-force.
Understanding the Kilogram-force
Kilogram-force (kgf) measures force. Defined as the force exerted by standard gravity on a mass of one kilogram — exactly 9.80665 newtons. It is classified as a non-SI unit, deprecated but still encountered.
Where it's used: Still encountered in some older European and Asian engineering specifications and torque-related equipment, though official use has been phased out in favor of the newton
Kilogram-force vs. newton. The newton is the modern SI unit of force; kilogram-force is an older, gravity-dependent unit still occasionally seen on legacy equipment. 1 kgf equals exactly 9.80665 N.
Uses of the Kilogram-force today
- Appears on some older or legacy engineering and mechanical specifications, particularly torque wrenches and spring-force ratings, predating wider adoption of the newton
Understanding the Centinewton (cN)
Centinewton is 0.01 newton units.
Kilogram-force — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — Notes kilogram-force among non-SI force units whose use is discouraged in favor of the newton.
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many centinewtons are in 1 kilogram-force?
1 kilogram-force equals 980.665 centinewtons, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert kilogram-force to centinewton?
Multiply the kilogram-force value by 980.665. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert centinewton back to kilogram-force?
Use the reverse factor: 1 centinewton equals 0.0010197162 kilogram-forces. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a kilogram-force?
Kilogram-force (kgf) measures force. Defined as the force exerted by standard gravity on a mass of one kilogram — exactly 9.80665 newtons. It is classified as a non-SI unit, deprecated but still encountered.
What is a centinewton?
Centinewton (cN) is a unit of force.
Is the kilogram-force to centinewton conversion exact?
Yes. Defined as the force exerted by standard gravity on a mass of one kilogram — exactly 9.80665 newtons. That fixed definition is what the converter above uses, so any rounding you see is a display choice, not a limitation of the math.
What is the difference between kilogram-force vs. newton?
The newton is the modern SI unit of force; kilogram-force is an older, gravity-dependent unit still occasionally seen on legacy equipment. 1 kgf equals exactly 9.80665 N.
Where is the kilogram-force still used today?
Still encountered in some older European and Asian engineering specifications and torque-related equipment, though official use has been phased out in favor of the newton