Inches to CM converter

How to convert inches to centimeters

To convert inches to centimeters, use cm = in × 2.54. For example, 8 in is 20.32 cm. Type any value in the converter above and the result updates instantly.

The Inches to CM formula

The conversion is cm = in × 2.54. One inch equals 2.54 cm. This conversion is exact: inch is defined precisely in terms of centimeter, so the only rounding is in the digits shown.

Inches to CM conversion table

Where inches and centimeters are used

Inches are the standard for screen sizes, tires, pipes, paper and tool sizes everywhere, and for everyday lengths in the United States.

Centimeters are the everyday small unit of length in most of the world: body height, clothing and furniture sizes, and screen and paper dimensions.

Worked examples

These examples use the formula above, so you can check the converter or do the same by hand:

• 2 in = 5.08 cm
• 4 in = 10.16 cm
• 6 in = 15.24 cm

Converting inches to centimeters in your head

Multiply by 2.5 and add a little: 10 in is about 25 cm, and the exact value is 25.4 cm. Remember that 1 inch is exactly 2.54 cm.

CM to Inches reference table

For the opposite direction, these values are handy to have at hand:

Common mistakes to avoid

• Do not confuse the international inch (exactly 25.4 mm) with the US survey foot used in old land records; everyday conversions use the international values.
• Feet and inches are often written together: 5 ft 9 in is 69 inches, or 175.26 cm.

About this converter

The converter accepts whole numbers, decimals and negative values, gives the result as you type, and uses full precision internally, so what you copy is as accurate as it can be. It runs in your browser: nothing you type is sent to a server, it keeps working offline once the page has loaded, and there is nothing to install.

Need the opposite direction? Use the CM to Inches converter.