Common length conversions

Length measures distance along one dimension. Use consistent units before comparing dimensions or multiplying lengths to calculate areas.

The formula

1 in = 2.54 cm; 1 ft = 0.3048 m

How to use it

The international inch is exactly 2.54 centimeters. Divide centimeters by 2.54 to obtain inches. A 100 cm length is approximately 39.37007874 inches. A foot contains 12 inches, a yard contains 3 feet, and an international mile contains 5280 feet. Do not apply a length factor directly to area: square the factor when converting squared units.

Related measurement tools

Check the result

Keep intermediate digits until the end, then round to the precision appropriate for the original measurement. Converting to a different unit does not make an imprecise measurement more accurate. Try the linked tool for a reference table and a comparison with related units.

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Definition references: NIST Guide to the SI and BIPM SI Brochure.