What is the Difference between a Volt and Watt?

At Gateway Cable Company, we often have customers ask us, “What is the difference between a volt and watt?” Well, we’re here to answer that question! Our guide below will help you understand the difference between a volt and watt, the history behind the unit of power, and answer questions like, “What are watts compared to?”. Be sure to contact our service department for further questions! 

Does a Volt equal a Watt? 

So, does a volt equal a watt? Before we dive into that question, it is important to know the history behind both units of measurement. The watt is a unit of power, it is a flow of one ampere with a single voltage of 1. A volt is a unit of electrical potential. So does a volt equal a watt? Simply put, the answer is yes! When there is a change in the value of a watt, that change will reflect in the same value of a volt.

In other words, a volt is the potential difference between two terminals of a conducting wire and a watt is the rate at which any electrical current performs when a current of at least one ampere flows across that potential difference of a volt. But, what is the difference between a volt and watt? One is the rate and one is the potential difference!

The Relationship Between a Volt and Watt

The relationship between a volt and watt is direct. If the watt increases, the voltage amount will increase and vice versa if it were to decrease. These units of electricity can be tricky to understand at first glance. Here is what the formula and breakdown of measurements:

  • Watt = measure of power 
  • Volt = measure of electric potential 
  • Ampere = measure of current 
  • 1 watt = 1 ampere multiplied by 1 volt 

Visit Us at Gateway Cable Company

Now that we’ve answered your questions of, “What are watts compared to?” and “What is the difference between a volt and watt?” Feel free to contact us with additional questions! Be sure to check out our cable assembly, power, and electrical products.