# Force Unit Converter (Extended: N / kN / dyn / lbf / kgf / poundal)

Convert force between newton (N, SI base), kilonewton (kN), dyne (dyn, CGS = 10⁻⁵ N), pound-force (lbf = 4.4482216152605 N), kilogram-force (kgf = 9.80665 N), and poundal (pdl = 0.138254954376 N). All factors derive from the exact defining constants 1 lb = 0.45359237 kg, 1 ft = 0.3048 m, and standard gravity g₀ = 9.80665 m/s². Converts via newton to the target unit and lists the equivalent value in all six units. Reference: 1 kg of mass on Earth ≈ 9.80665 N (1 kgf); an adult weighs ≈ 700 N.

> Canonical page: https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/force-unit-converter-extended

- **Category:** Math & Numbers

- **Keywords:** force conversion, force, newton, N, kilonewton, kN, dyne, dyn, CGS, pound-force, lbf, kilogram-force, kgf, kilopond, kp, poundal, pdl, absolute english system, mechanics

## Overview

Convert force values between newtons (N), kilonewtons (kN), dynes (dyn), pound-force (lbf), kilogram-force (kgf), and poundals (pdl). Enter a value, choose the input and output units, set decimal places from 0 to 10, and receive the converted result plus equivalent values in all six units.

## Inputs

- **Input unit** (select)
- **Value** (number): Force value in the selected Input unit. Can be negative (e.g. opposite direction).
- **Output unit** (select)
- **Decimal Places** (number)

## When to use

- Convert engineering or mechanics measurements between SI, CGS, and English force units.
- Translate pound-force, kilogram-force, or poundal values into newtons or kilonewtons.
- Check equivalent force values across all supported units using consistent standard conversion factors.

## How it works

- Enter the force value in the Value field. Negative values are supported for opposite-direction forces.
- Select the Input unit and Output unit from N, kN, dyn, lbf, kgf, or poundal.
- Choose the number of Decimal Places, from 0 to 10.
- The converter calculates through newtons and returns the selected conversion along with equivalent values in all six units.

## Use cases

- Engineering calculations that require force values in newtons or kilonewtons.
- Mechanics and physics work involving CGS dynes or English-system pound-force and poundals.
- Comparing familiar weight-force references, such as kilogram-force, with SI force measurements.

## Frequently asked questions

### Which force units does this converter support?

It supports N, kN, dyn, lbf, kgf, and poundal (pdl).

### What is the conversion from kilogram-force to newtons?

1 kgf equals 9.80665 N under standard gravity.

### Can I convert pound-force to newtons?

Yes. The converter uses 1 lbf = 4.4482216152605 N.

### Can I enter a negative force value?

Yes. Negative values can represent force in the opposite direction.

### How many decimal places can I display?

You can choose from 0 to 10 decimal places.

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