How to use the inches to centimeters converter
Enter a length in inches. Multiply by 2.54 to convert to centimeters.
Inches to centimeters
The conversion factor is exact: one international inch is defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters.
Example: Mason converts a ruler measurement
Mason measures 12 inches. Since one international inch is exactly 2.54 centimeters, 12 × 2.54 = 30.48 centimeters.
A decimal inch is not feet-and-inches notation: 5.5 inches means five and a half inches. Convert any separate feet into inches before entering the total.
Use decimal inches for fractional measurements
One inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters. For 6½ inches, enter 6.5 to get 16.51 centimeters, or 165.1 millimeters.
The conversion factor is exact, but the measured length can still have rounding or measurement error. Convert every dimension separately when checking a product size.
Common inch-to-centimeter conversions
Multiply by 2.54. Round only after converting, particularly when the result will be used in another calculation.
| Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.54 |
| 2 | 5.08 |
| 5 | 12.7 |
| 6 | 15.24 |
| 10 | 25.4 |
| 12 | 30.48 |
| 24 | 60.96 |
| 36 | 91.44 |
Assumptions and limitations
What the estimate assumes
The numeric conversion is exact; measurement accuracy still depends on the original measurement.
Sources and reference material
Inches to Centimeters Converter FAQs
How many centimeters are in one inch?
Exactly 2.54 centimeters.
What is 6 inches in centimeters?
15.24 centimeters.
Can I enter decimal inches?
Yes.
Does the converter also show millimeters?
Yes.
Exact unit conversion; displayed decimals may be rounded for readability.