Inches to Centimeters Converter
Enter a value to instantly convert between length units.
1 Inch = 2.54 Centimeter
Key Formulas
Centimeter → Inch
in = cm × 0.393701Kilometer → Mile
mi = km × 0.621371Foot → Meter
m = ft × 0.3048Inch → Centimeter
cm = in × 2.54Formula
cm = in × (0.0254 / 0.01)Each inch is 2.54 cm, so converting inches to centimeters multiplies by 0.0254 / 0.01. The 1959 international yard and pound agreement set this value, and 12 in comes to 30.48 cm. Shoppers, designers, and engineers use it for screen diagonals, clothing sizes, and blueprint dimensions: a 27 in monitor measures 68.58 cm. The centimeter takes its name from the prefix centi-, one hundredth, as the BIPM SI prefix table lists. NIST Handbook 44 gives the same 2.54 cm inch.
Source: NIST named international length definitions (definition-derived arithmetic)
Reviewed by the Convert Calc editorial team · Last reviewed: · see our methodology
Frequently Asked Questions
Real-World Examples
The base case: one inch, exact by definition.
1 in = 2.54 cm
A 27-inch monitor's diagonal in centimeters for a desk fit.
27 in = 68.58 cm
A 6 in nail length on a metric parts list.
6 in = 15.24 cm
A 12 in ruler against a metric tape measure.
12 in = 30.48 cm
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Further Reading
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How to Take Body Measurements for Accurate Clothing Sizes
Which body measurements clothing sizes are actually based on, how to take them accurately at home, and why your 'usual size' doesn't always travel between brands or countries.
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How We Verify Our Conversion Factors
A reader walkthrough for checking a unit definition, independently calculating a result and interpreting rounding, source scope and review dates.
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Shoe Size Conversion Guide: US, UK, EU, and Centimeters
Why shoe sizes don't convert with a simple formula, how US, UK, and EU sizing systems differ, and how to measure your foot to find your true size.