CM to Inches Converter — Convert Centimeters to Inches Instantly

About Centimeters to Inches Conversion

Centimeters (cm) and inches (in) both measure length, but they belong to different systems: centimeters are part of the metric (SI) system, while inches are used in U.S. customary and some imperial contexts. If your ruler, tape, or cut list is marked in inches, you’ll want to convert from cm accurately. For more length calculators, explore our length metric conversion tools.

The conversion is simple because 1 inch is defined exactly as 2.54 cm. Dividing a measurement in centimeters by 2.54 gives you inches—no approximations required. This exact relationship keeps your sewing, woodworking, DIY, and height measurements consistent.

CM to Inches Formula

Exact relationship

Use the factor method:

inches = centimeters ÷ 2.54

Example:

10 cm = 10 ÷ 2.54 = 3.93701 in

Reverse calculation (in → cm)

Multiply by 2.54: centimeters = inches × 2.54.

Why People Convert cm → inches

Everyday & technical uses

• 📏 Height & apparel: Compare body measurements to size charts in inches.
• 🧵 Sewing & crafts: Match patterns and rulers that use inches and fractions.
• 🪚 Woodworking & DIY: Align cut lists, tool fences, and plans written in inches.
• 🏗️ Construction: Convert specs when drawings or codes reference inches/feet.
• 📐 STEM & labs: Convert device specs and instrument scales quickly and exactly.

Common Conversions

Everyday quick checks

• 1 cm = 0.39370 in
• 5 cm = 1.96850 in
• 10 cm = 3.93701 in
• 30 cm = 11.81102 in
• 50 cm = 19.68504 in
• 100 cm = 39.37008 in

What is a Centimeter?

A centimeter is a metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter. It’s common on rulers, cloth tapes, and technical drawings in countries using the metric system. Because the metric system is decimal-based, scaling up or down is straightforward (mm ⇄ cm ⇄ m).

What is an Inch?

An inch is a U.S. customary length unit used widely in carpentry, manufacturing, and apparel. The international inch is defined as exactly 2.54 cm. It’s often divided into fractions (1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16) on rulers and tapes.

Step-by-Step: Converting cm to in

1. Write the value in centimeters.
2. Divide by 2.54.
3. Label the result in inches (in).

Example walkthrough:

Input:  72 cm
Divide: 72 ÷ 2.54 = 28.34646
Output: 28.34646 in

Precision, Rounding & Significant Figures

Everyday rounding

For most uses (height, clothing, DIY), 2–3 decimals are enough. This tool displays 5 decimals to preserve precision—round as needed for your application.

Reporting in feet & inches

To express a result in feet and inches, divide inches by 12 to get feet, and use the remainder as inches. For example, 170 cm ≈ 66.929 in = 5 ft 6.929 in (~5′7″).

Use Cases of CM → IN

• 🧍 Height conversions for travel, sports, and healthcare forms.
• 🧵 Pattern adjustments and fabric cutting in mixed-unit projects.
• 🛠️ Tool setup (saw fences, drill press depth) that reads in inches.
• 🏠 Furniture and décor sizing against imperial room plans.
• 📊 Converting sensor or device specs documented in inches.

Quick Reference Table

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for Working with Inches

• Keep track of fractional marks (1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16) on U.S. rulers and tapes.
• For apparel and height, consider rounding to the nearest 1/4″ or 1/8″ for practicality.
• When documenting, note the exact factor (2.54) to maintain consistency across teams.