Kelvin to Celsius Converter
Formula
°C = K − 273.15
Subtract 273.15 from a Kelvin temperature to convert to Celsius.
How to use
- Enter the temperature in Kelvin.
- Read the equivalent Celsius value below.
- Change the value to convert any other temperature.
Example
Convert 373.15 K: 373.15 − 273.15 = 100°C. That is the boiling point of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 273.15 K in Celsius?
273.15 K = 0°C (freezing point of water).
Why don't Kelvin temperatures use a degree symbol?
Kelvin is written as a plain number followed by K, such as 300 K, with no degree symbol, because it's an absolute unit rather than a relative scale. By contrast, Celsius and Fahrenheit use the degree symbol since they're measured relative to chosen reference points like water's freezing point. This convention was formalized so 'kelvin' is treated as a base SI unit like the meter or kilogram.
How do I convert Kelvin directly to Fahrenheit?
Convert Kelvin to Celsius first by subtracting 273.15, then convert Celsius to Fahrenheit by multiplying by 1.8 and adding 32. For example, 300 K becomes 26.85 degrees Celsius, which is about 80.3 degrees Fahrenheit. There's no single-step shortcut, so the two-stage method is the reliable approach.