Gorillas are significantly larger and heavier than humans on average. Adult male gorillas, known as silverbacks, typically stand about 1.5 to 1.8 meters (4 ft 11 in to 5 ft 11 in) tall and weigh between 135 to 195 kilograms (300 to 430 pounds), with some individuals recorded up to 267 kg (589 lb) or even 310 kg (683 lb) in captivity
. Their arm span ranges from approximately 2.3 to 2.6 meters (7 ft 7 in to 8 ft 6 in), which is notably longer than that of humans
. In comparison, the average adult human male is about 1.7 meters (5 ft 7 in) tall and weighs around 70 to 90 kilograms (154 to 190 pounds)
. Humans have shorter arm spans and are generally less muscular than gorillas. To summarize:
- Height: Gorillas up to 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in), humans around 1.7 m (5 ft 7 in)
- Weight: Gorillas 135–195 kg (300–430 lbs), humans around 70–90 kg (154–190 lbs)
- Arm Span: Gorillas 2.3–2.6 m (7 ft 7 in to 8 ft 6 in), humans shorter by about 30 cm (1 ft)
Gorillas also have much greater upper body strength-estimated to be 6 to 18 times stronger than an average adult human male
. This size and strength difference is reflected in their physical features such as longer arms, broader hands, and a more robust muscular build compared to humans. In essence, gorillas are larger, heavier, and far stronger than humans, with distinctive physical adaptations suited to their environment and lifestyle
