How do I convert cal to kcal?

Use the formula shown above or enter a value to see cal converted to kcal instantly.

What is the formula for cal to kcal?

The converter calculates kcal by applying the category-specific conversion factor for Energy.

When should I use cal vs kcal?

cal and kcal are both part of the Energy category; pick the unit that matches your measurement context (e.g., scale, region, or industry standard).

Energy Conversion Guide

Convert cal to kcal

Use the live converter below to translate between Calorie (cal) and Kilocalorie (food) (kcal). Scroll further for quick examples, formula tips, and related units.

Formula insight: Most unit conversions use a simple multiplication or division by a conversion factor. The calculator shows the exact formula used.

Convert

cal → kcal

Calorie

cal

Kilocalorie (food)

0.001

kcal

Rounded result (4 decimals max)

Formula

1 cal = 0.001 kcal

Conversion sourcesTap or click to view references

The International System of Units (SI) — NIST Special Publication 330
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The SI Brochure (SP 330) is the definitive English edition of the BIPM SI tables. NIST’s edition lists the official constants and conversion factors tying inch-pound units to SI, which SwapUnits applies for length, mass, temperature, pressure, volume, and related conversions. See /standards/nist-si-tenfold for the complete decimal multiple/submultiple table. View source · View SI table

Results update as you type. Swap the direction to convert back from kcal to cal.

Back to main converter

cal to kcal quick table

Multiply any row by the same factor to scale results. Use the converter above to enter exact values with your own units.

Calorie (cal)	Kilocalorie (food) (kcal)
0.25 cal	0.0003 kcal
0.5 cal	0.0005 kcal
1 cal	0.001 kcal
2 cal	0.002 kcal
5 cal	0.005 kcal
10 cal	0.01 kcal
25 cal	0.025 kcal
100 cal	0.1 kcal

kcal back to cal

Keep the reciprocal handy when double-checking calculations or undoing a conversion.

Kilocalorie (food) (kcal)	Calorie (cal)
0.25 kcal	250 cal
0.5 kcal	500 cal
1 kcal	1,000 cal
2 kcal	2,000 cal
5 kcal	5,000 cal
10 kcal	10,000 cal
25 kcal	25,000 cal
100 kcal	100,000 cal

Explore more energy conversion guide

cal → J

Convert into Joule without leaving SwapUnits.

cal → kJ

Convert into Kilojoule without leaving SwapUnits.

cal → BTU

Convert into British Thermal Unit without leaving SwapUnits.

cal → kWh

Convert into Kilowatt Hour without leaving SwapUnits.

Compare all energy conversion guide

View the full unit roster, charts, and tips for Energy Conversion Guide conversions.

Open category guide