Inches to CM Converter
Convert inches to centimeters with high precision and detailed measurements
Perfect for international measurements, design work, and scientific calculations
Table of Contents
Inches to CM Converter – Precise Imperial to Metric Conversion
Convert inches to centimeters with our comprehensive tool that handles decimal inches, fractional measurements, and feet-inches combinations. Perfect for international projects, scientific calculations, and everyday measurements.
How to Use the Inches to CM Converter
- Choose Your Format: Select from decimal inches, fractional inches, or feet & inches
- Enter Your Measurement: Type your value in the appropriate input fields
- Get Instant Results: See the conversion result immediately with high precision
- Use Quick Buttons: Click preset values for common measurements
- Copy Results: Copy the converted values for use in your projects
Inches to CM Conversion Formula
The conversion from inches to centimeters is based on the international definition where 1 inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters.
Basic Conversion Formula
Primary Formula
| Conversion | Formula | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Inches to CM | CM = Inches × 2.54 | 10 inches = 10 × 2.54 = 25.4 CM |
| Fractional Inches | CM = (Whole + Fraction) × 2.54 | 5 1/2 inches = 5.5 × 2.54 = 13.97 CM |
| Feet & Inches | CM = (Feet × 12 + Inches) × 2.54 | 5'6" = (5×12 + 6) × 2.54 = 167.64 CM |
Step-by-Step Conversion Process
- Decimal Inches: Simply multiply by 2.54 for direct conversion
- Fractional Inches: Convert fraction to decimal first, then multiply by 2.54
- Feet & Inches: Convert feet to inches (×12), add remaining inches, then multiply by 2.54
- Round if Needed: Round to your desired precision for practical applications
Quick Inches to CM Conversion Table
Here are common conversions for quick reference:
Common Inches to CM Conversions
| Inches | Centimeters (CM) | Millimeters (MM) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 2.54 CM | 25.4 MM |
| 2 inches | 5.08 CM | 50.8 MM |
| 3 inches | 7.62 CM | 76.2 MM |
| 4 inches | 10.16 CM | 101.6 MM |
| 5 inches | 12.70 CM | 127.0 MM |
| 6 inches | 15.24 CM | 152.4 MM |
| 8 inches | 20.32 CM | 203.2 MM |
| 10 inches | 25.40 CM | 254.0 MM |
| 12 inches (1 foot) | 30.48 CM | 304.8 MM |
| 24 inches (2 feet) | 60.96 CM | 609.6 MM |
Fractional Inches to CM Guide
Converting fractional inches requires understanding common fractions and their decimal equivalents:
Common Fractional Inches
| Fraction | Decimal Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|
| 1/16" | 0.0625" | 0.159 CM |
| 1/8" | 0.125" | 0.318 CM |
| 3/16" | 0.1875" | 0.476 CM |
| 1/4" | 0.25" | 0.635 CM |
| 5/16" | 0.3125" | 0.794 CM |
| 3/8" | 0.375" | 0.953 CM |
| 7/16" | 0.4375" | 1.111 CM |
| 1/2" | 0.5" | 1.270 CM |
| 5/8" | 0.625" | 1.588 CM |
| 3/4" | 0.75" | 1.905 CM |
| 7/8" | 0.875" | 2.223 CM |
| 15/16" | 0.9375" | 2.381 CM |
Mixed Number Examples
- 2 1/4" = 2.25" = 5.715 CM
- 3 3/8" = 3.375" = 8.573 CM
- 5 7/16" = 5.4375" = 13.811 CM
- 8 3/4" = 8.75" = 22.225 CM
Common Height and Size Conversions
Here are typical height measurements and their metric equivalents:
Height Conversions (Feet & Inches to CM)
| Height (Feet & Inches) | Total Inches | Centimeters | Meters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5'0" | 60" | 152.4 CM | 1.524 M |
| 5'3" | 63" | 160.0 CM | 1.600 M |
| 5'6" | 66" | 167.6 CM | 1.676 M |
| 5'9" | 69" | 175.3 CM | 1.753 M |
| 6'0" | 72" | 182.9 CM | 1.829 M |
| 6'3" | 75" | 190.5 CM | 1.905 M |
| 6'6" | 78" | 198.1 CM | 1.981 M |
Common Object Sizes
- Letter Paper Width: 8.5" = 21.59 CM
- Letter Paper Height: 11" = 27.94 CM
- Standard Door: 80" = 203.2 CM
- Kitchen Counter: 36" = 91.44 CM
- Ceiling Height: 96" (8') = 243.84 CM
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert fractional inches to CM?
First convert the fraction to decimal inches. For example, 3/4" = 0.75". Then multiply by 2.54: 0.75 × 2.54 = 1.905 CM. Our fractional converter handles this automatically.
What's the most accurate way to measure in inches?
Use a ruler or measuring tape marked in fractional increments (1/16" or 1/32"). Digital calipers provide the highest precision for small measurements, reading directly in decimal inches.
Why is 2.54 the conversion factor?
In 1959, the international yard and pound agreement defined 1 inch as exactly 25.4 millimeters (2.54 centimeters). This became the worldwide standard for inch-to-metric conversions.
How do I convert height measurements?
For height in feet and inches, first convert feet to inches (multiply by 12), add the remaining inches, then multiply by 2.54. Example: 5'8" = (5×12 + 8) × 2.54 = 172.72 CM.
Can I use this for architectural measurements?
Yes, our converter provides the precision needed for architectural and engineering work. It handles fractional inches commonly used in construction and provides results accurate to 4 decimal places.
How do I remember common conversions?
Remember that 1" = 2.54 CM exactly. Useful approximations: 4" ≈ 10 CM, 12" = 30.48 CM, 40" ≈ 100 CM (actually 39.37"). These help with quick mental calculations.
What about pipe and lumber sizes?
Nominal lumber sizes differ from actual dimensions. A "2×4" is actually 1.5" × 3.5" (3.81 × 8.89 CM). Always measure actual dimensions for precise conversions, especially in international contexts.
Is this converter suitable for scientific work?
Yes, our converter uses the exact international conversion factor (2.54) and provides precision suitable for scientific, medical, and engineering applications requiring metric measurements.
