The calculation, without hidden assumptions
kW and kVA answer different questions: kW is real power and kVA is apparent power. Their numerical relationship depends on power factor, so this page keeps PF visible, supports both directions in one canonical tool and shows the reverse calculation as a quick sanity check.
How to use this calculator
Choose whether you are starting with kW or kVA.
Enter the known power and a power factor greater than 0 and no more than 1.
Read both real and apparent power, then compare the reverse check with the value you entered.
Where people use it
- •Generator and UPS load comparisons
- •Nameplate and design sanity checks
- •Power-factor training
Example: 8 kW at PF 0.8
8 kW ÷ 0.8 = 10 kVA. Reversing the result, 10 kVA × 0.8 returns 8 kW.
What the result does not assume
- •A single PF value is a simplified steady-state relationship. Harmonics and varying load can require actual measurements.
- •This calculation does not choose generator, cable, breaker or UPS capacity margins.
Frequently asked questions
Are kW and kVA equal?+
Only when power factor is 1. At lower PF, kVA is larger than kW for the same load.
Why combine both directions on one page?+
They are reciprocal forms of the same relationship, so one canonical tool avoids competing duplicate pages.
Can PF be greater than 1?+
No. This calculator accepts a PF greater than 0 and no more than 1.
Semantic next steps
Continue the calculation
These links move to a different input, formula or project stage rather than a keyword variation of this page.
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