Have you ever wondered how to switch between centimeters (cm) and inches (in)? This guide will help you understand these measurements and how to convert between them.

What are centimeters (cm) and inches (in)?

• Centimeters are a metric unit of length. There are 100 centimeters in a meter.
• Inches are an imperial unit of length. There are 12 inches in a foot.

Why is it important to know how to convert between them?

Different countries use different systems. Knowing how to convert helps you understand measurements no matter where you are or what you're working on.

The Basics of CM and IN

Definition of a centimeter

A centimeter is about the width of your fingernail.

Definition of an inch

An inch is about the length of the first joint of your thumb.

How they relate to each other

One inch is a bit longer than two and a half centimeters.

How Many Inches Are in a Centimeter?

The exact conversion ratio

1 inch = 2.54 centimeters

Approximate value for quick estimates

You can think of 1 inch as about 2.5 cm for quick, rough calculations.

How to Convert CM to Inches or Inches to CM

CM to Inches conversion

1. The conversion formula: inches = cm ÷ 2.54
• Take your cm measurement
• Divide it by 2.54
• The result is your measurement in inches
2. Example problem: Convert 10 cm to inches

   10 cm ÷ 2.54 = 3.94 inches

Inches to CM conversion

1. The conversion formula: cm = inches × 2.54
• Take your inch measurement
• Multiply it by 2.54
• The result is your measurement in cm
2. Example problem: Convert 5 inches to cm

   5 inches × 2.54 = 12.7 cm

Tips for quick mental conversions

• 1 inch is about 2.5 cm
• 4 inches is about 10 cm
• 10 inches is about 25 cm

FAQ

Why do some countries use cm and others use in?

Different countries adopted different measuring systems over time. The United States uses inches, while most other countries use centimeters.

Which is smaller, a cm or an in?

A centimeter is smaller than an inch. There are about 2.54 cm in one inch.

How many cm are in a foot?

There are 30.48 cm in a foot. (12 inches × 2.54 cm/inch = 30.48 cm)

How do I convert 27 in to cm?

To convert 27 in to cm:

1. Take number 27;
2. Multiply it by 2.54; and
3. That's all, the result is 68.58 cm.

How do I convert 36 cm to in?

To convert 36 cm to in:

1. Take the number 36;
2. Multiply it by 0.3937,
3. Your result is 14.173 in!