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Torque Converter

Convert torque values quickly and accurately. Instant conversions with detailed step-by-step solutions.

Last Updated: May 26, 2026
5 min read

About this converter

Convert between 17 different units of torque. Enter a value and select units to see the conversion result instantly with step-by-step solution.

This tool converts torque from one unit to another in seconds. Torque is a turning force, like what a wrench applies when you tighten a bolt or what an engine produces to rotate a shaft. This calculator helps students, mechanics, engineers, DIY users, and anyone reading specs in different unit systems. You enter a torque value, choose the unit you have, then pick the unit you want. The result shows the converted torque instantly, so you can compare product datasheets, follow service manuals, or match torque settings without guesswork.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter your torque value (for example, 120).
  2. Select the unit you currently have (such as N·m or lb-ft).
  3. Choose the unit you want to convert to (such as lb-in or kgf·m).
  4. View the converted value in the output field.
  5. If needed, change units or value to compare different specifications.

What This Calculator Measures

Torque is a measure of rotational force. It describes how strongly a force causes something to twist around a point or axis.

Key terms in simple words:

  • Torque: Turning force that causes rotation.
  • Lever arm (distance): How far the force is applied from the pivot point.
  • Force: The push or pull being applied.
  • Units: Different ways to write torque depending on country, industry, or tool manuals.

Common torque units you may see:

  • N·m (newton meter)
  • lb-ft (pound-foot)
  • lb-in (pound-inch)
  • kgf·m (kilogram-force meter)
  • kgf·cm (kilogram-force centimeter)
  • dyn·cm (dyne centimeter)

Formula or Logic (Easy Explanation)

This calculator converts by using fixed relationships between units. Think of it like currency exchange, but for torque. Each torque unit can be expressed relative to a standard reference. The tool first interprets your input in that reference form, then converts it into your chosen output unit. No heavy math is required from you. You only need the value and the units.

Example Calculations

Example 1: N·m to lb-ft

  • Input: 100 N·m
  • Output: ≈ 73.76 lb-ft

Example 2: lb-ft to N·m

  • Input: 50 lb-ft
  • Output: ≈ 67.79 N·m

Example 3: lb-in to lb-ft

  • Input: 240 lb-in
  • Output: 20 lb-ft

Understanding Your Results

Your output is the same torque expressed in a different unit. The meaning does not change, only the label and number do.

How to read it correctly:

  • A larger number does not always mean "more torque." It may simply be a smaller unit.
  • For example, lb-in will show a bigger number than lb-ft for the same torque because inches are smaller than feet.

When results matter most:

  • Tightening fasteners to a specific torque setting
  • Comparing engine or motor torque ratings
  • Checking manufacturer specs across metric and imperial documents
  • Converting between workshop tools and service manual units

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mixing up lb-ft and lb-in (they are not the same).
  • Confusing torque (rotational force) with regular force (straight push/pull).
  • Entering a value with the wrong unit selected.
  • Forgetting to change both the "from" and "to" units.
  • Rounding too early when you need precision.
  • Assuming kgf·m is the same as N·m (it is not).
  • Reading engine torque and bolt torque as interchangeable (they are different use cases).

Frequently Asked Questions

Torque is a twisting force. If you push on a wrench handle to turn a bolt, the turning effect you create is torque.
N·m stands for newton meter. It is the standard metric unit of torque and is used in many engineering and automotive specs.
They are both torque units, but lb-ft uses feet and lb-in uses inches. The same torque will be 12 times larger in lb-in than in lb-ft.
Enter the value in N·m, choose N·m as the input unit, then select lb-ft as the output unit. The calculator will show the converted value.
Different units have different sizes. Smaller units produce larger numbers for the same torque, and larger units produce smaller numbers.
No. Torque is turning force. Power describes how fast work is done. In engines and motors, they are related, but they are not the same measurement.
Yes. If your torque wrench is marked in one unit and your manual lists another, convert the manual's value into your wrench's unit before setting it.
kgf·m means kilogram-force meter. It uses a force unit based on gravity. It is common in some older documents and certain industries.
For general comparisons, rounding is fine. For torque-critical tasks like fasteners, keep more decimal places and follow the tool or manual's recommended precision.
Most modern service manuals use N·m (metric) or lb-ft (imperial). Use whichever matches your manual or your torque wrench display.
Use the calculator output with more decimals and avoid rounding until the final step. Also ensure you selected the correct unit types (lb-ft vs lb-in).
In physics, yes. A negative value can indicate direction of rotation based on your chosen sign convention. Many practical tools list torque as a positive magnitude.

Torque is the turning force used in tools, machines, and engines, and it is often listed in different unit systems. This calculator helps you switch between units like N·m, lb-ft, and lb-in quickly and clearly. Try the calculator above to see your results.