Oil Viscosity Converter

Convert oil viscosity between centistokes, stokes, mm²/s, m²/s, centipoise, poise, Pa·s, and mPa·s. Use density to estimate the relationship between kinematic viscosity and dynamic viscosity for motor oil, gear oil, hydraulic oil, and lubricants.

Convert Oil Viscosity

100 cSt with density 0.87 g/cm³ is about 87 cP
Your oil viscosity conversion result will appear here.

Common oil viscosity conversions

cSt to mm²/s:
1 cSt = 1 mm²/s

St to cSt:
1 St = 100 cSt

cP to mPa·s:
1 cP = 1 mPa·s

cSt to cP:
cP = cSt × density in g/cm³

Where oil viscosity conversions are used

Oil viscosity conversions are useful for motor oil, gear oil, transmission fluid, hydraulic oil, differential fluid, industrial lubricants, oil analysis reports, technical data sheets, and comparing kinematic and dynamic viscosity values.

Use this converter for unit conversion only. Always follow the oil grade and specification recommended by the engine, equipment, or vehicle manufacturer.

What your oil viscosity result means

Your result shows the entered viscosity converted into the selected unit. The converter also displays reference values for cSt, St, mm²/s, cP, mPa·s, and Pa·s.

Oil viscosity depends strongly on temperature. A viscosity value measured at 40°C is not the same as a viscosity value measured at 100°C. SAE oil grades such as 0W-20, 5W-30, 10W-40, and 75W-90 are performance classifications, not simple unit conversions.

Oil viscosity converter tips

Frequently asked questions

How do I convert cSt to cP?

Multiply cSt by density in g/cm³. For example, 100 cSt with oil density 0.87 g/cm³ is about 87 cP.

Is cSt the same as mm²/s?

Yes. For kinematic viscosity, 1 cSt equals 1 mm²/s.

Is cP the same as mPa·s?

Yes. For dynamic viscosity, 1 cP equals 1 mPa·s.

Can I convert 5W-30 directly to cSt?

Not exactly. 5W-30 is an SAE oil grade, not a single viscosity value. Actual cSt depends on the oil formula and test temperature.

Why does temperature matter for oil viscosity?

Oil gets thinner as temperature rises and thicker as temperature falls, so viscosity values should be compared at the same temperature.