Convert kilometers per hour to knots
Converting kilometers per hour to knots is a common speed task, whether you are checking a recipe, a spec sheet, a travel distance or a homework problem. Since 1 km/h equals 0.539957 kn, the math is a single multiplication — and this page does it for you instantly, with the formula, a table of common values and answers to the questions people ask most.
Exact factor
How to convert kilometers per hour to knots
To convert kilometers per hour to knots, multiply the number of kilometers per hour by 0.539957. For example, 10 km/h × 0.539957 = 5.39957 kn.
kn = km/h × 0.539957
- Write down the value in kilometers per hour you want to convert.
- Multiply it by 0.539957 (the exact km/h→kn factor).
- The result is your value in knots. Check it below with the converter or the table.
Conversion table
Common values of kilometers per hour and their equivalents in knots:
| km/h | kn |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.539957 |
| 2 | 1.07991 |
| 3 | 1.61987 |
| 4 | 2.15983 |
| 5 | 2.69978 |
| 10 | 5.39957 |
| 20 | 10.7991 |
| 25 | 13.4989 |
| 50 | 26.9978 |
| 100 | 53.9957 |
| 250 | 134.989 |
| 500 | 269.978 |
About these units
Kilometer per Hour (km/h). Kilometers per hour is the standard speed unit for road traffic in metric countries, expressing how many kilometers are covered in one hour. Speed limits and car speedometers use km/h.
Knot (kn). A knot is one nautical mile (exactly 1,852 meters) per hour. It is the standard speed unit in aviation, maritime navigation and meteorology worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert kilometers per hour to knots?
To convert kilometers per hour to knots, multiply the number of kilometers per hour by 0.539957. For example, 10 km/h × 0.539957 = 5.39957 kn. Or skip the math: type the value into the converter at the top of this page and the result updates instantly.
How many knots are in 1 kilometer per hour?
1 km/h = 0.539957 kn. That is the fixed relationship used by this converter and by international standards.
How many kilometers per hour are in 1 knot?
1 kn = 1.852 km/h. If you are converting in the opposite direction, use our Knot to Kilometer per Hour converter for the dedicated table and FAQ.
Is the kilometers per hour to knots conversion exact?
Yes. Both units are defined by international agreement, so the factor of 0.539957 is exact. Displayed results are rounded to 6 significant digits only for readability.
What is kilometer per hour used for?
Kilometers per hour is the standard speed unit for road traffic in metric countries, expressing how many kilometers are covered in one hour. Speed limits and car speedometers use km/h.