Convert Knots to Miles per Hour

The Conversion Formula

To convert knots to miles per hour, multiply the value by the conversion factor: 1 kn = 1.1508 mph. For a worked example, suppose you need to convert 25 kn to miles per hour: 25 × 1.1508 = 28.7695 mph. To convert in the opposite direction, divide by 1.1508, or equivalently multiply by 0.868977.

About knots

The knot is a unit with a literal history: sailors used to measure speed by throwing a log overboard attached to a rope with knots tied at specific intervals. They counted the knots that slipped through their hands in a set time. One knot equals one nautical mile per hour. It remains the global standard for maritime and aviation operations. knots are commonly used in Ship speed, Aircraft airspeed, Cruise missile velocity, and Wind speed (Marine), Naval operations.

A large cruise ship travels at about 20-25 knots.

About miles per hour

Miles per hour (mph) is the standard speed unit for the United States and United Kingdom. It has been used since the days of stagecoaches but became codified with the rise of the automobile and the need for speed limits. Despite metrication efforts, the UK retains mph for its roads, keeping it aligned with the US system. miles per hour are commonly used in US & UK Speed limits, Baseball pitch speeds, Tennis serve speeds, and Hurricane wind speeds (US), NASCAR.

US highway speeds are typically 65-75 mph.

When Would You Convert knots to miles per hour?

Converting between knots and miles per hour is one of the most common speed conversions. You might need this conversion when working with international specifications, following instructions written for a different measurement system, or comparing values across different standards. Having the conversion factor (1 kn = 1.1508 mph) memorized or bookmarked can save time in professional and everyday contexts alike.