The newton is the SI unit of force.
Newtons to Kilogram-forces Converter — N to kgf
Convert Newton (N) to Kilogram-force (kgf) using the exact conversion factor (1 newton = 0.1019716213 kilogram-force). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, unit comparison, history, and common uses.
Newtons to Kilogram-forces 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.
Kilogram-force under standard gravity.
Result = input x 1 / 9.80665.
Force uses the newton as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Newtons to Kilogram-forces
Newton and Kilogram-force both measure force, and the conversion matters whenever an SI-trained engineer needs to compare notes with a US-trained one, or vice versa. Newton is typically associated with standard scientific and engineering force unit worldwide, while Kilogram-force is typically associated with 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.
Formula
kilogram-forces = newtons × 0.101971621298
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 newton equals 1 base unit, and 1 kilogram-force equals 9.80665 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct newton-to-kilogram-force factor of 0.101971621298.
Simple example
1 N × 0.1019716213 = 0.1019716213 kgf
1 newton = 0.1019716213 kilogram-forces.
Real-world example
10 N × 0.1019716213 = 1.019716213 kgf
10 newtons = 1.019716213 kilogram-forces.
Conversion table
| Newton (N) | Kilogram-force (kgf) |
|---|---|
| 1 N | 0.1019716213 kgf |
| 5 N | 0.5098581065 kgf |
| 10 N | 1.019716213 kgf |
| 50 N | 5.098581065 kgf |
| 100 N | 10.19716213 kgf |
| 1,000 N | 101.9716213 kgf |
Reverse conversion: Kilogram-force to Newton
0.1019716213 kgf × 9.80665 = 1 N
0.1019716213 kilogram-forces = 1 newtons.
newtons = kilogram-forces × 9.80665
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Kilogram-force to Newton.
Newton vs. Kilogram-force
| Aspect | Newton | Kilogram-force |
|---|---|---|
| Family | SI derived unit | non-SI unit, deprecated but still encountered |
| Typical use | Physics and engineering force calculations | Appears on some older or legacy engineering and mechanical specifications, particularly torque wrenches and spring-force ratings, predating wider adoption of the newton |
| Where it's used | Standard scientific and engineering force unit worldwide | 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 |
Understanding the Newton
Newton (N) measures force. The newton is the SI derived unit of force: the force needed to accelerate a 1 kg mass at 1 meter per second squared. It is classified as a SI derived unit.
Where it's used: Standard scientific and engineering force unit worldwide
Uses of the Newton today
- Physics and engineering force calculations
- Material strength and structural engineering specifications
- Product specifications (e.g. spring force, adhesive strength)
History of the Newton
The newton is named after Isaac Newton in recognition of his laws of motion, which define the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration that the unit embodies. It was formally adopted as the SI derived unit of force as part of the broader 20th-century SI system.
Historical origin. Newton was not the invention of a single named person; it developed through the process described above.
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
Newton — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — Coherent derived units — Defines the newton as the SI unit of force.
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 kilogram-forces are in 1 newton?
1 newton equals 0.1019716213 kilogram-forces, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert newton to kilogram-force?
Multiply the newton value by 0.1019716213. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert kilogram-force back to newton?
Use the reverse factor: 1 kilogram-force equals 9.80665 newtons. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a newton?
Newton (N) measures force. The newton is the SI derived unit of force: the force needed to accelerate a 1 kg mass at 1 meter per second squared. It is classified as a SI derived unit.
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.
Is the newton to kilogram-force 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 newton still used today?
Standard scientific and engineering force unit worldwide