Why Convert Watts to Kilowatts?
Converting between watts (W) and kilowatts (kW) is one of the most common power conversions. Whether for engineering, cooking, travel, or science, knowing how to quickly convert W to kW saves time and prevents errors.
Power conversions between W and kW are essential for automotive, electrical, and HVAC applications. Car specifications in Europe and China list engine power in kilowatts (kW), while the US and Japan prefer horsepower (hp). Home appliance energy labels show wattage for comparing electricity consumption. When sizing generators, air conditioners, or solar panels, accurate power conversion ensures you select the right equipment for your needs.
How to Convert Watts to Kilowatts
To convert watts to kilowatts, use the following formula:
kW = W × 0.001
Example: 1 W = 0.001 kW
For example, 5 W = 0.005 kW, 10 W = 0.01 kW, and 100 W = 0.1 kW. Our calculator above performs this conversion instantly with full precision — no rounding errors.
Common Use Cases
- A microwave oven at full power: 1000 W = 1 kW
- A traditional incandescent light bulb: 60 W = 0.06 kW
- An electric kettle: 2000 W = 2 kW
- A portable space heater: 1500 W = 1.5 kW
- A laptop computer while charging: 100 W = 0.1 kW
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Horsepower variants: Mechanical horsepower (550 ft·lbf/s) ≈ 745.7 W, while metric horsepower (PS) ≈ 735.5 W. This converter uses mechanical hp.
- Peak vs continuous power: Motor specifications may list peak or continuous power. A "2000W peak" motor might only sustain 1200W continuously.
- Electrical vs mechanical: Electrical power (watts) and mechanical output (horsepower) differ by motor efficiency (typically 80-95%).
Pro Tips
- Memorize the factor: 1 W = 0.001 kW. For quick mental math, remember this base conversion.
- Quick reference: 5 W = 0.005 kW · 10 W = 0.01 kW · 25 W = 0.025 kW · 50 W = 0.05 kW · 100 W = 0.1 kW
- Bookmark this page: Save this converter for instant access. It works offline once loaded — no internet needed.
Watts to Kilowatts Conversion Table
| W | kW |
|---|---|
| 0.01 W | 0.00001 kW |
| 0.1 W | 0.0001 kW |
| 0.5 W | 0.0005 kW |
| 1 W | 0.001 kW |
| 2 W | 0.002 kW |
| 5 W | 0.005 kW |
| 10 W | 0.01 kW |
| 20 W | 0.02 kW |
| 50 W | 0.05 kW |
| 100 W | 0.1 kW |
| 500 W | 0.5 kW |
| 1000 W | 1 kW |
All values in this table are mathematically exact per NIST SP 811.