Don's Tools · World · Proof to ABV

Proof to ABV converter

Convert US alcohol proof to ABV percentage and back. Includes a reference chart of common spirits.

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Enter a proof or ABV value above
Common spirits reference — click to convert
Light beer10 proof5% ABV
Wine (typical)24–28 proof12–14% ABV
Amaretto60 proof30% ABV
Kahlúa70 proof35% ABV
Vodka (standard)80 proof40% ABV
Gin (standard)80 proof40% ABV
Rum (white)80 proof40% ABV
Tequila (standard)80 proof40% ABV
Blended Scotch (standard)80 proof40% ABV
Bourbon (standard)86–90 proof43–45% ABV
100-proof vodka / bourbon100 proof50% ABV
Overproof rum / cask strength120–140 proof60–70% ABV
Everclear (grain alcohol)190 proof95% ABV
Pure ethanol (200 proof)200 proof100% ABV
US-only system: the "proof" system is used in the US, UK, and historically France, but with different definitions. The US definition (since 1848) is exactly double the ABV: 80 proof = 40% ABV. The UK used a different hydrometer-based scale until 1980 when it switched to ABV. EU labelling now requires ABV, making proof a distinctly American thing.

Frequently asked questions

Why is proof double the ABV in the US?

The US adopted the simple rule that proof = 2 × ABV in 1848 by act of Congress. It was chosen for tax purposes — it is easy to calculate either way. Before that, "proof" referred to gunpowder tests: spirits that would still ignite gunpowder when mixed with it were considered "proved" to contain enough alcohol, roughly 57.15% ABV by the old test.

Why does the US still use proof?

Tradition, regulation, and marketing. The US Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) requires proof statements on distilled spirits labels. Many brands also use proof as a brand statement — "86 proof" sounds more distinctive than "43%". The system is so ingrained in American culture that changing it would be disorienting.

What is the minimum proof for spirits sold in the US?

To be labelled as "vodka", "whiskey", "rum", "gin" or other spirit categories, US federal regulations require a minimum of 40% ABV (80 proof). Some exceptions exist for certain categories and products bottled before modern regulations.