Kilogram-force under standard gravity.
Kilogram-forces to Nanonewtons Converter — kgf to nN
Convert Kilogram-force (kgf) to Nanonewton (nN) using the exact conversion factor (1 kilogram-force = 9,806,650,000 nanonewton). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, and common uses.
Kilogram-forces to Nanonewtons converter
Converter
Force Converter
Convert newtons, dynes, pound-force, kilogram-force, kips, and ounce-force.
Nanonewton is 1e-9 newton units.
Result = input x 9.80665 / 1e-9.
Force uses the newton as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Kilogram-forces to Nanonewtons
Kilogram-force and Nanonewton 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
nanonewtons = kilogram-forces × 9806650000
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 nanonewton equals 1e-9 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct kilogram-force-to-nanonewton factor of 9806650000.
Simple example
1 kgf × 9806650000 = 9,806,650,000 nN
1 kilogram-force = 9,806,650,000 nanonewtons.
Real-world example
10 kgf × 9806650000 = 98,066,500,000 nN
10 kilogram-forces = 98,066,500,000 nanonewtons.
Conversion table
| Kilogram-force (kgf) | Nanonewton (nN) |
|---|---|
| 1 kgf | 9,806,650,000 nN |
| 5 kgf | 49,033,250,000 nN |
| 10 kgf | 98,066,500,000 nN |
| 50 kgf | 490,332,500,000 nN |
| 100 kgf | 980,665,000,000 nN |
| 1,000 kgf | 9.80665e+12 nN |
Reverse conversion: Nanonewton to Kilogram-force
1 nN × 1.019716e-10 = 1.019716e-10 kgf
1 nanonewton = 1.019716e-10 kilogram-forces.
kilogram-forces = nanonewtons × 1.019716e-10
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Nanonewton 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 Nanonewton (nN)
Nanonewton is 1e-9 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 nanonewtons are in 1 kilogram-force?
1 kilogram-force equals 9,806,650,000 nanonewtons, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert kilogram-force to nanonewton?
Multiply the kilogram-force value by 9806650000. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert nanonewton back to kilogram-force?
Use the reverse factor: 1 nanonewton equals 1.019716e-10 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 nanonewton?
Nanonewton (nN) is a unit of force.
Is the kilogram-force to nanonewton 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