Converting inches to centimeters is straightforward: multiply inches by 2.54 to get centimeters. This exact factor comes from the international inch definition, where 1 inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters. Use the interactive Inch to CM Converter below for instant, accurate results.
Inches ⟷ Centimeters
Editable on both sides. Left accepts decimal or fraction inches.
Inch ↔ CM Converter
Inches (decimal or fraction)
Centimeters (cm)
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How to convert inches into centimetre
To convert any measurement from inches into centimetre, use this simple formula:
- centimeters = inches × 2.54
Examples:
- 1 inch in cm = 1 × 2.54 = 2.54 cm.
- 5 inches to centimeters = 5 × 2.54 = 12.7 cm.
- 10 inches to centimeters = 10 × 2.54 = 25.4 cm.
Tip: For fractions, convert the fraction to a decimal first, or type a mixed fraction (like 1 7/16) directly into the converter.
Inch versus cm: what’s the difference?
- Inch (in): A unit from the imperial/US customary system, common in the U.S. for screens, tools, and lumber.
- Centimeter (cm): A metric unit used worldwide in science, education, and most consumer products.
- Relationship: inches and centimeters convert linearly—there’s no rounding by definition. 1 inch in cm is exactly 2.54 cm, so 12 inches equals 30.48 cm, 24 inches equals 60.96 cm, and so on.
Quick conversion table: inches and centimeters
These handy values cover common sizes. Multiply or divide by 2.54 to scale beyond this list.
| Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|
| 1 in | 2.54 cm |
| 2 in | 5.08 cm |
| 3 in | 7.62 cm |
| 4 in | 10.16 cm |
| 5 in | 12.7 cm |
| 6 in | 15.24 cm |
| 8 in | 20.32 cm |
| 10 in | 25.4 cm |
| 12 in | 30.48 cm |
| 15 in | 38.1 cm |
| 24 in | 60.96 cm |
Step-by-step: 1 inch into cm
- Write the conversion factor: 1 in = 2.54 cm.
- Multiply: 1 × 2.54 = 2.54.
- Result: conversion 1 inch to cm = 2.54 centimeters.
This same method works for any length: just replace “1” with the number of inches.
Examples people often search for
- 15 inch to cm = 38.1 cm
- 10 inch to cm = 25.4 cm
- 6 inch in cm = 15.24 cm
- 5 inch in cm = 12.7 cm
- 4 inch in cm = 10.16 cm
- 1 1/2 inch in cm (often typed “1 1 inch in cm” by mistake) = 1.5 × 2.54 = 3.81 cm
Note: Mixed fractions like “1 7/16” can be entered directly in the converter; it will interpret and convert them precisely.
Inches by centimeters: understanding width × height
When a size is written as “inches by centimeters” (e.g., 8×10 inches vs 20.32×25.4 cm), it simply lists width and height in different units. To convert an area (like a photo or frame size), convert each side:
- 8 in × 10 in = 20.32 cm × 25.4 cm.
FAQs
1 inch in cm is exactly 2.54 centimeters.
Remember 2.54≈2½+0.04. Multiply inches by 2½ (easy in head), then add about 4% of the inches for a close mental estimate.
They’re different units measuring the same quantity (length). Convert using 1 in = 2.54 cm to switch between inches and centimeters.
It’s simply showing the same dimension in imperial (inches) and metric (centimeters), so shoppers in different regions can compare easily.
Use the converter at the top for accurate, real-time results—type inches (decimal or fraction) or centimeters, and see inches into centimeter, inch in cm, and feet-and-inches breakdown instantly.
Bookmark this page for the next time you need to convert inches to cm fast.