Ideal Weight Calculator
Free online ideal weight calculator using 4 scientific formulas: Devine, Robinson, Miller and Hamwi. Find your healthy weight range by height and sex.
What is Ideal Body Weight?
Ideal body weight is a theoretical weight range that is considered healthy for a person based on height and sex. Unlike BMI, which is a simple ratio, ideal weight formulas try to estimate a reasonable target range from body proportions. There is no single formula that works perfectly for everyone, which is why this calculator compares four widely used methods side by side.
Four Ideal Weight Formulas Compared
| Formula | Year | Male Formula | Female Formula | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Devine | 1974 | 50 kg + 2.3 kg per inch | 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg per inch | Medical & clinical use (most common) |
| Robinson | 1983 | 52 kg + 1.9 kg per inch | 49 kg + 1.7 kg per inch | More accurate for taller people |
| Miller | 1983 | 56.2 kg + 1.41 kg per inch | 53.1 kg + 1.36 kg per inch | Similar accuracy to Robinson |
| Hamwi | 1964 | 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch | 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch | Traditional reference for frame-based estimates |
How Each Formula Works (Metric)
Ideal Weight vs BMI vs Body Fat
- Ideal Weight: Theoretical weight range based on height and gender. Does not account for muscle vs fat or individual variation.
- BMI: Simple ratio of weight to height squared. Easy to calculate but does not distinguish muscle from fat.
- Body Fat Percentage: Most accurate measure of health. Tells you actual proportion of fat vs muscle. Requires special measurement tools.
💡 Pro tip: Your ideal weight is just a range. Two people of the same height may both be healthy at different weights depending on muscle mass. An athlete may be above the ideal weight range but lean, while someone sedentary might be within range but have high body fat. Use this calculator as a starting reference, not a strict target.
⚠️ Not for children: These formulas are designed for adults. Children have different body compositions and growth patterns. Use age- and sex-specific BMI percentile charts for children instead.
⭐ Why Use BestMiniApps Ideal Weight Calculator?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which formula should I trust most?
The Devine formula is one of the most commonly referenced in medical and clinical contexts, but no single method is universally best. The most practical approach is to look at the formulas as a range and combine that with body composition, health markers, and professional advice when needed.
What if I am muscular? Will this calculator be accurate?
No — these formulas assume average body composition. Muscular individuals (athletes, bodybuilders) may be well above the ideal weight range but still very healthy. Muscle weighs more than fat, so if you have significant muscle mass, your ideal weight may be higher than these formulas suggest. Consider getting your body fat percentage measured instead.
How does this differ from BMI?
BMI is a simple mathematical formula (weight ÷ height²) that classifies people into categories. Ideal weight formulas use different calculations that attempt to account for frame size and gender differences. Both are screening tools and have limitations. Neither distinguishes between muscle and fat, which is why body fat percentage is more informative.
Can I achieve an ideal weight that is below my current weight safely?
A safe weight loss rate is 0.5-1 kg (1-2 lbs) per week. If you need to lose weight, combining a moderate calorie deficit with regular exercise and strength training will help you lose fat while preserving muscle. Consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before starting a major weight loss program to ensure it is safe for your individual situation.
Do these formulas account for age?
The standard formulas do not explicitly adjust for age. However, as we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and bone density (sarcopenia), so the ideal weight concept may not apply equally to older adults. Older individuals may need to prioritize muscle preservation and functional fitness rather than reaching a specific weight target.