kVA ↔ kW Converter

Convert apparent power (kVA) and real power (kW) using Power Factor (PF). Includes presets + Show Work + share links.

How to Use

  1. Choose a conversion direction (kVA → kW or kW → kVA).
  2. Enter the value and set Power Factor (PF).
  3. Results update instantly (no URL changes while typing).
  4. Open “Show Work” for formulas + steps.
Power Conversion Panel
kW is the “real” part of kVA, scaled by Power Factor.
Mode
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PF
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kVA
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kW
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Status: —
Quick formulas: kW = kVA × PF kVA = kW ÷ PF
Inputs & Settings
Enter values and PF. Choose a direction or use Auto.
Typical: generator size, transformer rating, UPS sizing
Real power does useful work (heat, light, motion)
PF is typically 0.7–1.0. Use 1.0 for resistive loads.
Auto uses the available input + PF to solve the missing value.
Show Work (step-by-step)
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Work is shown in base units (kVA, kW, PF). If you use VA/W or MVA/MW, conversions are shown first.

Reference

  • kVA (apparent power): total power “seen” by source (includes reactive).
  • kW (real power): usable power that performs work.
  • PF (power factor): ratio of real to apparent power (PF = kW / kVA).
For 3-phase electrical calculations (voltage/current/line-to-line), use a dedicated kW/kVA/Amps 3-phase tool.

FAQ

Why is kW lower than kVA?

Because reactive power doesn’t do useful work. Real power is kW = kVA × PF, and PF is usually < 1 for inductive loads.

What PF should I use?

If you don’t know, 0.8–0.9 is a common estimate for motor-heavy loads. Resistive loads are near 1.0.

Can PF be greater than 1?

In normal AC power systems, PF is between 0 and 1. Some measurement artifacts or definitions can show values above 1, but typical engineering PF is ≤ 1.

Does this tool replace full 3-phase sizing?

No—this is a direct kVA↔kW conversion. For line current, voltage, and phase details, use a 1-phase/3-phase power calculator.

Tool Info

Last updated:

Updates may include UI improvements, rounding behavior, and edge-case handling (PF bounds, unit scaling).