Kilograms (kg) to Pounds (lbs) Converter
Convert weight/mass units between the metric system (kilograms) and the imperial/US customary system (pounds).
Kilograms (kg) to Pounds (lbs)
Pounds (lbs) to Kilograms (kg)
Understanding Kilograms and Pounds
Kilograms (kg) and Pounds (lbs) are common units used to measure mass or weight.
- Kilogram (kg): The base unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI), used worldwide in science and most countries for everyday measurements.
- Pound (lb): A unit of mass primarily used in the United States, United Kingdom (though metric is common), and other countries using imperial or US customary systems. The specific definition used here is the international avoirdupois pound.
Conversion Factor
The key conversion factor used by this weight converter is:
1 kilogram ≈ 2.20462 pounds
(Conversely, 1 pound ≈ 0.45359 kilograms)
This tool allows quick and accurate mass conversion between kg to lbs and lbs to kg. Useful for body weight tracking, cooking recipes from different regions, shipping weight calculations, or converting scientific measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is 'kilos' the same as 'kilograms'?
Yes, 'kilos' is the common informal term for 'kilograms'.
What is the difference between mass and weight?
Mass is the amount of matter in an object, while weight is the force exerted on an object by gravity. On Earth's surface, they are often used interchangeably in everyday language, and units like kg and lbs are used for both. However, scientifically, kg is a unit of mass, and the pound can be a unit of mass (lbm) or force (lbf).
How accurate is this converter?
It uses the standard international avoirdupois pound definition for conversion, providing a high degree of accuracy (factor ≈ 2.20462262). Results are typically rounded for practical display.
Where are pounds commonly used?
Primarily in the United States for body weight, food measurements, and everyday objects. The UK also uses pounds, especially for body weight, alongside metric units.
