Centimeters to Inches Conversion Calculator

How to Convert Centimeters to Inches

By

Joe Sexton

Joe is the creator of Inch Calculator and has over 20 years of experience in engineering and construction. He holds several degrees and certifications.

Full bio

Reviewed by

Ethan Dederick, PhD

Ethan has a PhD in astrophysics and is currently a satellite imaging scientist. He specializes in math, science, and astrophysics.

Full bio

Copy Link Share on Facebook Share on X Share on Pinterest Cite

×

Cite As:

Sexton, J. (n.d.). Centimeters to Inches Conversion Calculator. Inch Calculator. Retrieved November 17, 2024, from https://www.inchcalculator.com/convert/centimeter-to-inch/

To convert a measurement in centimeters to a measurement in inches, you can use a simple formula. Since one inch is equal to 2.54 centimeters, the formula used to convert is:

inches = centimeters ÷ 2.54

The length in inches is equal to the length in centimeters divided by 2.54.

How Many Inches Are in a Centimeter?

There are 0.393701 inches in a centimeter, which is why we use this value in the formula above.

1 cm = 0.393701"

How to Convert Centimeters to Fractional Inches

We covered how to convert centimeters to inches, but you may still be wondering how to convert centimeters to fractional inches.

To do so, begin by converting cm to inches using the conversion formula above to get the resulting decimal, and then round to the nearest fractional inch. The number to the left of the decimal is the number of whole inches, and the numbers to the right of the decimal are what will be rounded to the nearest fractional inch.

To round, take the number to the right of the decimal point from the decimal result, and multiply it by the level of precision you need. You can round to the nearest 1/16, 1/32, or 1/64 of an inch.

To round to the nearest 1/16 of an inch, for instance, take the decimal portion and multiply it by 16. Then, round that result to the nearest whole number to get the numerator of the fractional inch measurement in 16ths of an inch.

Our inch fraction calculator can add centimeters and inches together, and it also automatically converts the results to US customary, imperial, and SI metric values.

Centimeters and inches are both units used to measure length. Keep reading to learn more about each unit of measure.

What Is an Inch?

An inch is a unit of length equal to ¹/₁₂ of a foot or ¹/₃₆ of a yard. Because the international yard is legally defined to be equal to exactly 0.9144 meters, one inch is equal to 2.54 centimeters.^[1]

The inch is a US customary and imperial unit of length. Inches can be abbreviated as in; for example, 1 inch can be written as 1 in.

Inches can also be denoted using the ″ symbol, otherwise known as a double-prime. Often a double-quote (") is used instead of a double-prime for convenience. A double-prime is commonly used to express 1 in as 1″.

The standard ruler is 12 inches long and is a common tool for measuring a length in inches. Another frequently used tool to perform measurements in inches is a tape measure, which commonly comes in lengths from 6' - 35'. Other types of devices used to make measurements in inches include scales, calipers, measuring wheels, micrometers, yardsticks, and even lasers.

Learn more about inches.

We recommend using a ruler or tape measure for measuring length, which can be found at a local retailer or home center. Rulers are available in imperial, metric, or a combination of both values, so make sure you get the correct type for your needs.

Need a ruler? Try our free downloadable and printable rulers, which include both imperial and metric measurements.