How to convert kilograms to pounds
To convert a measurement in kilograms to pounds, multiply the value by 2.204623. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the kilogram.
For example, to convert 5 kg to pounds: 5 × 2.204623 = 11.023113 lb.
What is a kilogram?
A kilogram is the SI base unit of mass, equal to 1,000 grams or approximately 2.205 pounds. Originally defined in 1795 as the mass of one liter of water, the kilogram was fixed by a platinum-iridium cylinder from 1889 until 2019, when it was redefined in terms of the Planck constant. It is the only SI base unit whose name carries a prefix.
Common uses of kilograms include: Body weight in most countries; Grocery and produce pricing (price per kg); Shipping and freight weight; Scientific and laboratory mass measurements.
What is a pound?
A pound is an imperial and US customary unit of mass equal to 16 ounces or exactly 0.45359237 kilograms. The pound derives from the Roman 'libra' (hence the symbol 'lb'). The international avoirdupois pound was fixed at exactly 0.45359237 kg by the 1959 international yard and pound agreement between English-speaking nations.
Common uses of pounds include: Body weight in the US and UK; Grocery and produce pricing in the US; Bodybuilding and weightlifting loads; Shipping weights for parcels in the US.
When you need to convert kilograms to pounds
Converting kilograms to pounds is one of the most common weight conversions in the world. Travelers checking airline baggage limits, gym-goers reading weight plates, and anyone comparing body weight between metric and US or UK systems need it constantly. A 23 kg bag limit, for instance, is about 50.7 pounds.
Kilograms to pounds worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 kg = 2.204623 lb 5 kg = 11.023113 lb 10 kg = 22.046226 lb 50 kg = 110.231131 lb 100 kg = 220.462262 lb
Frequently asked questions
How many pounds are in one kilogram?
One kilogram (kg) equals 2.204623 pounds (lb). Multiply any value in kilograms by 2.204623 to convert to pounds.
How do I convert kilograms to pounds?
Multiply the value in kilograms by 2.204623. For example, 5 kg × 2.204623 = 11.023113 lb.
How do I convert pounds to kilograms?
Multiply the value in pounds by 0.45359237, or divide by 2.204623. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the kilogram to pound conversion exact?
Yes. Since 1959 the international pound is defined as exactly 0.45359237 kg, so all weight conversions between metric and avoirdupois units use exact factors.
What is the formula for kilograms to pounds?
The formula is: lb = kg × 2.204623. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the kilogram.