How to Convert Inches to CM
Use this formula:
cm = inches × 2.54
One inch is defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters (since 1959), so multiplying by 2.54 gives you the length in cm.
Worked example: 10 inches to cm
10 × 2.54 = 25.4 cm. So 10 in = 25.4 cm.
More examples: 12 in = 30.48 cm (1 foot), 24 in = 60.96 cm. To go from cm to inches, divide by 2.54—or use our cm to inches converter.
Inches to CM Conversion Table
Reference table from 1 inch to 50 inches in centimeters (2 decimal places).
| inches | cm |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.54 |
| 2 | 5.08 |
| 3 | 7.62 |
| 4 | 10.16 |
| 5 | 12.70 |
| 6 | 15.24 |
| 7 | 17.78 |
| 8 | 20.32 |
| 9 | 22.86 |
| 10 | 25.40 |
| 11 | 27.94 |
| 12 | 30.48 |
| 13 | 33.02 |
| 14 | 35.56 |
| 15 | 38.10 |
| 16 | 40.64 |
| 17 | 43.18 |
| 18 | 45.72 |
| 19 | 48.26 |
| 20 | 50.80 |
| 21 | 53.34 |
| 22 | 55.88 |
| 23 | 58.42 |
| 24 | 60.96 |
| 25 | 63.50 |
| 26 | 66.04 |
| 27 | 68.58 |
| 28 | 71.12 |
| 29 | 73.66 |
| 30 | 76.20 |
| 31 | 78.74 |
| 32 | 81.28 |
| 33 | 83.82 |
| 34 | 86.36 |
| 35 | 88.90 |
| 36 | 91.44 |
| 37 | 93.98 |
| 38 | 96.52 |
| 39 | 99.06 |
| 40 | 101.60 |
| 41 | 104.14 |
| 42 | 106.68 |
| 43 | 109.22 |
| 44 | 111.76 |
| 45 | 114.30 |
| 46 | 116.84 |
| 47 | 119.38 |
| 48 | 121.92 |
| 49 | 124.46 |
| 50 | 127.00 |
For values above 50 inches, use the formula cm = inches × 2.54 or the calculator above.
When Is Inches to CM Conversion Used?
Converting from inches to centimeters comes up whenever measurements are in imperial and you need metric:
- Screen and display sizes: Screens are often sold in inches (diagonal). Converting to cm helps compare with metric specs or room size.
- US/UK specs and manuals: Product dimensions may be in inches; converting to cm makes it easier for metric users or for international forms.
- DIY and crafts: Plans or materials in inches—converting to cm keeps cuts accurate when your tape is metric, or use cm to inches the other way.
- Clothing and sizing: Some size charts use inches; converting to cm helps when buying from metric-based brands.
- Construction and carpentry: US plans are in inches; converting to cm aligns with metric materials or international standards.
About Inches
The inch is an imperial and US customary unit of length. It is still standard in the United States and used in the UK for many everyday measures. One inch is defined as exactly 2.54 cm. Twelve inches make one foot; for feet, see our feet to cm and cm to feet converters.
About Centimeters
The centimeter is part of the metric system and is 1/100 of a meter. It is the standard unit of length in most countries. Converting inches to cm gives you a metric value for global use. For other length tools, see cm to inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many cm are in 1 inch?
- 1 inch equals exactly 2.54 cm. Multiply inches by 2.54 to get cm.
- How do I convert inches to cm manually?
- Multiply the length in inches by 2.54. Example: 10 in × 2.54 = 25.4 cm.
- What is 12 inches in cm?
- 12 inches = 30.48 cm (1 foot). So 1 ft = 30.48 cm.
- Why is 1 inch exactly 2.54 cm?
- Since 1959 the inch has been defined internationally as exactly 2.54 cm so the imperial yard matches the metric system.
- How many cm is 24 inches?
- 24 inches = 60.96 cm. Common for screen sizes given in inches.
- How do I convert cm back to inches?
- Divide cm by 2.54. Or use our cm to inches converter.