Power Converter: Convert Watts, dBm, and Horsepower
The Power Converter changes values between watts, kilowatts, megawatts, horsepower, and other supported power units. Most units use linear conversions, while dBm and dBW use logarithmic scales referenced to 1 mW and 1 W. Enter a value, select its source and target units, and read the converted figure. Negative dBm values are valid.
The Power Converter helps you convert power measurements between units such as watts, kilowatts, megawatts, horsepower, dBm, and dBW. Enter a value, select its source and target units, and use the converted figure in your calculations, reports, or technical documentation.
Most power-unit conversions are linear. For example, 1 hp equals 745.6999 W, and 1 PS equals 735.49875 W. Decibel units work differently: dBm and dBW are logarithmic, with 0 dBm equal to 1 mW and 0 dBW equal to 1 W. The conversion to watts follows P(W) = 10^(dB/10) × reference. Negative dBm values are valid and represent power below one milliwatt.
Watts and related units express power directly, while dBm and dBW express it relative to a reference power on a logarithmic scale. Converting between them helps when a specification, device reading, or audience uses a different unit. Horsepower also has variants, including mechanical, metric, and electrical horsepower, so selecting the correct unit matters.
The Power Converter runs entirely in your browser. Your input is processed on your device and is not uploaded, stored, or sent to a server; after the page has loaded, conversions also work offline. It is useful for developers, engineers, DevOps teams, and anyone checking power values across measurements or technical materials.
Step 1: Enter the power value you want to convert. Negative dBm values are valid, so you can convert sub-milliwatt signal measurements.
Step 2: Choose the source unit for your value. The available units include watts, kilowatts, megawatts, horsepower variants, dBm, and dBW.
Step 3: Choose the target unit you need. Selecting the source and target lets you convert in either direction between supported units.
Step 4: Read the converted figure and check that the displayed unit matches the one you need for your calculation or report.
Use case: Convert a power measurement when the source and target systems use different units, such as watts and horsepower.
Use case: Check a value in the unit your audience expects, making technical reports and documentation easier to follow.
Use case: Convert a set of power measurements instead of rounding each value by hand.
Use case: Compare a motor's mechanical horsepower rating with a power value expressed in watts.
Use case: Check radio or signal measurements in dBm or dBW, where the logarithmic scale is useful for expressing power levels.
Use case: Validate a negative dBm reading when working with a signal below one milliwatt.