Power Converter
Fast, accurate power conversions, right in your browser.
The Power Converter converts between watts, kilowatts, horsepower and other power units used in engineering and automotive contexts — useful when comparing a motor's wattage rating to a horsepower specification from a different source.
How to Convert
- Enter your power value and select the starting unit
- Choose your target unit
- The converted result appears instantly
Frequently Asked Questions
What power units does this converter support?
Common units include watts (W), kilowatts (kW), horsepower (hp), and megawatts (MW).
How many watts are in one horsepower?
One horsepower equals approximately 746 watts (mechanical horsepower).
Is this useful for comparing appliance power ratings?
Yes — household appliances are typically rated in watts, and this tool helps compare them or convert to kilowatts for energy cost calculations.
Why do car engines use horsepower while electric motors use kilowatts?
Horsepower is a historical unit from the era of steam and combustion engines, while kilowatts are the standard SI power unit increasingly used for electric vehicle motor ratings.
Is this tool free to use?
Yes, completely free with no signup, no limits and no software to install.
Is my data saved anywhere?
No — conversions run in your browser and the values you enter are not stored or sent to a server.
How many kilowatts are in a megawatt?
1,000 kilowatts (kW) equal one megawatt (MW).
Is power the same as energy?
No — power (watts) measures the rate of energy use or transfer, while energy (like kilowatt-hours) measures the total amount used over time.
Is this useful for solar panel system sizing?
Yes — solar panels and home power systems are commonly rated in watts or kilowatts, and this tool helps with comparisons across different unit conventions.
What's the difference between metric and mechanical horsepower?
Metric horsepower (PS) is slightly smaller than mechanical/imperial horsepower (about 735.5 W vs 746 W) — European manufacturers often use metric horsepower, which can cause small discrepancies in published specs.
