Compare common ideal-weight formulas to get a practical reference range from height and sex.
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Compare common ideal-weight formulas to get a practical reference range from height and sex.
These formulas are screening tools for general reference — they do not account for muscle mass, age, ethnicity, or medical conditions. Consult a physician for clinical weight guidance.
Average: 65.9 kg
Devine: 65.9 kg
Robinson: 65.2 kg
Miller: 66.0 kg
Hamwi: 66.7 kg
Estimate ideal weight using Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi formulas and compare the output range in one place. Runs locally in your browser when supported—no upload required for normal use. Designed for quick everyday tasks with clear, copy-friendly output.
Estimate ideal weight using Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi formulas and compare the output range in one place.
Input your height in cm (metric) or feet and inches (imperial). Height is the primary variable in all four ideal-weight formulas.
The formulas have different baseline constants for male and female. Select the sex assigned at birth or the one closest to your body composition for the most relevant estimate.
The calculator shows estimates from four formulas (Devine, Robinson, Miller, Hamwi) side by side. The range across them indicates the inherent uncertainty — these are clinical screening references, not targets.
The range output is most useful as a sanity check, not a precise target. Athletes and muscular individuals will weigh more than the formula suggests without being overweight. Cross-check with BMI and body fat percentage for a fuller picture.
Common real-world scenarios where this tool saves time.
Compare common ideal-weight formulas to get a practical reference range from height and sex.
Use when you want results without uploading files—local browser processing when the tool supports it.
Open Ideal Weight Calculator in any modern browser for quick checks with copy-friendly output.
Step-by-step chains that connect related tools for common tasks.
All four formulas use height and sex only. Results in pounds for a 5'8" (173 cm) male.
| Formula | Year | 5'8" Male Result | 5'8" Female Result | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Devine | 1974 | 166 lbs (75.3 kg) | 151 lbs (68.5 kg) | Medication dosing (IV, pharmacokinetics) |
| Robinson | 1983 | 160 lbs (72.6 kg) | 147 lbs (66.7 kg) | Modified clinical reference |
| Miller | 1983 | 172 lbs (78.0 kg) | 158 lbs (71.7 kg) | Broader healthy range |
| Hamwi | 1964 | 166 lbs (75.3 kg) | 150 lbs (68.0 kg) | Dietitian frame-size rule of thumb |
The range across formulas (160–172 lbs here) represents the clinical uncertainty — your 'ideal' likely falls somewhere in this window.
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Four established clinical formulas: (1) Devine (1974): used in medication dosing; (2) Robinson (1983): modified Devine with adjustments; (3) Miller (1983): generally gives higher weights; (4) Hamwi (1964): simple frame-size-based rule used by dietitians. The tool displays all four so you can see the realistic range.
Not exactly. 'Ideal weight' from formulas is a statistical reference range derived from population studies. 'Healthy weight' is typically defined by a BMI of 18.5–24.9. An individual can be healthy at weights outside either range depending on muscle mass, bone density, and other factors.
Each formula was derived from a different population sample and era. Devine (1974) was designed for drug dosing in clinical settings. The differences highlight that 'ideal weight' is a population-level concept, not an individual precision measurement. Use the range as context, not a single fixed target.
No. All four formulas use only height and sex — they cannot differentiate muscle from fat. A muscular athlete may weigh 20–30 lbs more than the formula output but have low body fat and excellent health. The Katch-McArdle lean body mass formula is more appropriate for athletes.
BMI of 18.5–24.9 corresponds to a 'healthy weight' range. Ideal weight formulas often fall within the BMI 20–24 range. To check BMI for any weight, use the BMI calculator. Both approaches have similar limitations for muscular individuals.
The classic formulas do not adjust for age. Body composition naturally shifts with age — muscle decreases and fat tends to increase. Some clinical guidelines allow slightly higher weights for adults over 65. Always consult a physician for age-adjusted guidance.
A healthy weight range typically spans a BMI of 18.5–24.9 converted to actual weight for your height. The ideal weight formulas usually produce a single number near the middle of that range. Use the BMI calculator alongside this tool for a broader view.
Use the formula range as a rough reference, not a fixed target. A realistic, sustainable goal is typically 0.5–1 lb/week of loss. Focus on body composition (fat vs. muscle) over scale weight — measure body fat %, waist circumference, and fitness performance alongside weight.
Height and sex inputs stay on your device for formula estimates.
Screening estimates only—not medical advice.
For planning and education—not a substitute for clinical assessment. Health information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.
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Reviewed by EverydayTools Editorial Team on 2026-05-19.