Torque units
Torque unit converter with a useful force comparison.
Convert N·m, kgf·m, kgf·cm, lbf·ft and lbf·in instantly. See the force needed at two common wrench lengths, then scan a clean conversion grid.
Conversion guide
Torque unit converter FAQ
Which unit is standard here?
N·m is the SI unit used internally by the calculator. It describes one newton of force applied one metre from the pivot.
What is the difference between N, kgf and lbf?
N is the SI unit of force. kgf is the force exerted by standard gravity on one kilogram, while lbf is the imperial pound-force. They are different units: 1 kgf ≈ 9.80665 N and 1 lbf ≈ 4.44822 N.
Why is kgf·cm common on small tools?
kgf·cm is a compact kilogram-force torque unit. It is convenient for small fasteners, but N·m is easier to compare internationally.
How do I read the handle-force comparison?
For a wrench of length r, force is torque divided by r. The 0.25 m and 0.50 m cards show the force needed at the handle for the entered torque.
Is lbf·ft the same as lb·ft?
In torque specifications, lbf·ft is the explicit form: pound-force feet. “lb·ft” is often used informally for the same unit, but lbf avoids ambiguity.
Can I mix torque and length units?
Torque and length units are separate choices. Convert the torque first, and keep L and E in the same length unit when using the extension calculator.
What is the difference between torque and force?
Torque includes a distance from the pivot. The same force creates twice the torque at twice the wrench length.
Which unit should I use in the extension calculator?
N·m with mm is the default here, but any listed torque unit is safe when all entered values use the matching labels.
Common torque values
| N·m | kgf·m | lbf·ft |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1.020 | 7.376 |
| 25 | 2.549 | 18.440 |
| 50 | 5.099 | 36.878 |
| 100 | 10.197 | 73.756 |
| 250 | 25.493 | 184.391 |
| 500 | 50.987 | 367.809 |
Conversion example
100 N·m in familiar workshop units.
100 N·m is 10.1972 kgf·m, 1019.7162 kgf·cm, 73.7562 lbf·ft and 885.072 lbf·in.