Why Convert Pounds to Kilograms?
Converting between pounds (lb) and kilograms (kg) is one of the most common mass conversions. Whether for engineering, cooking, travel, or science, knowing how to quickly convert lb to kg saves time and prevents errors.
Mass conversions between lb and kg come up constantly in everyday life. International travelers need to convert luggage weight limits — airlines typically allow 23 kg (≈50.7 lb) for checked bags and 7-10 kg for carry-on. In fitness, gym equipment in the US uses pounds while most of the world uses kilograms. Cooking recipes from different countries require converting between grams, ounces, and pounds for accurate measurements.
How to Convert Pounds to Kilograms
To convert pounds to kilograms, use the following formula:
kg = lb × 0.45359237
Example: 1 lb = 0.45359237 kg
For example, 5 lb = 2.26796185 kg, 10 lb = 4.5359237 kg, and 100 lb = 45.359237 kg. Our calculator above performs this conversion instantly with full precision — no rounding errors.
Common Use Cases
- Average male body weight (US): 150 lb = 68.0388555 kg
- Checked baggage limit (50 lb, US airlines): 50 lb = 22.6796185 kg
- 25 lb dumbbell (beginner weight): 25 lb = 11.33980925 kg
- Standard barbell plate (45 lb): 45 lb = 20.41165665 kg
- 10 lb dumbbell (light training): 10 lb = 4.5359237 kg
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing mass and weight: In everyday use, "weight" and "mass" are interchangeable, but in science they differ. This converter handles mass units.
- Pound ambiguity: The avoirdupois pound (lb, used for everyday weight) differs from the troy pound (used for precious metals). This converter uses avoirdupois.
- Rounding errors in cooking: When converting lb to kg for recipes, round to the nearest practical measurement (e.g., nearest 5g or ¼ oz).
Pro Tips
- Memorize the factor: 1 lb = 0.45359237 kg. For quick mental math, remember this base conversion.
- Quick reference: 5 lb = 2.26796185 kg · 10 lb = 4.5359237 kg · 25 lb = 11.33980925 kg · 50 lb = 22.6796185 kg · 100 lb = 45.359237 kg
- Bookmark this page: Save this converter for instant access. It works offline once loaded — no internet needed.
Pounds to Kilograms Conversion Table
| lb | kg |
|---|---|
| 0.01 lb | 0.0045359237 kg |
| 0.1 lb | 0.045359237 kg |
| 0.5 lb | 0.226796185 kg |
| 1 lb | 0.45359237 kg |
| 2 lb | 0.90718474 kg |
| 5 lb | 2.26796185 kg |
| 10 lb | 4.5359237 kg |
| 20 lb | 9.0718474 kg |
| 50 lb | 22.6796185 kg |
| 100 lb | 45.359237 kg |
| 500 lb | 226.796185 kg |
| 1000 lb | 453.59237 kg |
All values in this table are mathematically exact per NIST SP 811.