Force & Torque Converter (N, lbf, kgf, N·m, ft·lb)
Two related but different quantities: force (how hard something pushes or pulls) and torque — also called moment of force — (a twisting force applied at a distance, e.g. tightening a bolt). They use different units and aren't interchangeable, so this page has two independent converters. Runs entirely in your browser.
Force
Torque
How it works
Force converts through a base unit of newtons; torque converts through newton-meters (force × lever-arm distance) — that's why torque units always name both a force and a length, e.g. "foot-pound" or "newton-meter". Kilogram-force (kgf) is a force defined from standard gravity, common in older specs and some non-SI contexts.
Common conversions
| From | To | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1 N | lbf | 0.2248 lbf |
| 1 kgf | N | 9.80665 N |
| 1 N·m | ft·lb | 0.7376 ft·lb |
| 25 ft·lb | N·m | 33.90 N·m (typical spark plug torque) |
FAQ
Can I convert newtons directly to newton-meters?
No — force (N) and torque (N·m) measure different physical quantities. Torque additionally depends on the length of the lever arm the force is applied through, so there's no single conversion factor between them.
What is kilogram-force?
The force exerted by standard gravity on a 1 kg mass: 1 kgf = 9.80665 N. It's a non-SI unit still seen in older torque wrenches and some specification sheets.