Converting inches to centimeters is one of the most common length conversions, needed for everything from screen sizes and clothing measurements to engineering and DIY projects. This guide covers the formula, a conversion table, worked examples, and ready-to-use code in several languages.
The Conversion Formula
One inch is officially defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters. So the formula is simple:
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centimeters = inches × 2.54
To go the other way:
inches = centimeters ÷ 2.54
Because 2.54 is an exact value (not a rounded approximation), inch-to-cm conversions are precise.
How to Convert: Step by Step
To convert any measurement in inches to centimeters:
- Take the number of inches.
- Multiply it by 2.54.
- The result is the length in centimeters.
For example, to convert 10 inches: 10 × 2.54 = 25.4 cm.
Quick Conversion Table
| Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|
| 1 in | 2.54 cm |
| 2 in | 5.08 cm |
| 3 in | 7.62 cm |
| 5 in | 12.70 cm |
| 6 in | 15.24 cm |
| 10 in | 25.40 cm |
| 12 in | 30.48 cm |
| 24 in | 60.96 cm |
| 36 in | 91.44 cm |
| 100 in | 254.00 cm |
Worked Examples
Example 1 — TV screen size. A 55-inch TV (measured diagonally) is 55 × 2.54 = 139.7 cm.
Example 2 — Height. Someone who is 70 inches tall is 70 × 2.54 = 177.8 cm.
Example 3 — Reverse conversion. A 30 cm ruler is 30 ÷ 2.54 ≈ 11.81 inches.
Inches to centimeters converter
Quick reference
