Inches to Centimeters (in to cm) Converter

1 inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters — multiply the number of inches by 2.54 to convert. Since 1959 the inch has been defined as precisely 2.54 cm, so this factor is exact by international agreement.

The formula

To convert inches to centimeters, multiply by 2.54:

centimeters = inches × 2.54

For example, 10 in × 2.54 = 25.4 cm. To reverse it, divide centimeters by 2.54 (or multiply by 0.39370079).

Conversion table

Worked example

Say a shelf is 36 inches wide and you need centimeters for a metric plan. Multiply: 36 × 2.54 = 91.44 cm. Reversing, 91.44 ÷ 2.54 = 36 inches. A common 15-inch laptop screen is 15 × 2.54 = 38.1 cm, and a 55-inch TV diagonal is 55 × 2.54 = 139.7 cm. Since the factor is exactly 2.54, every added inch contributes another 2.54 centimeters, so 10 inches is 25.4 cm and 100 inches is 254 cm. This makes the converter handy whenever you shop internationally or read a spec sheet that lists dimensions in inches but you think in the metric system. Reverse conversions work the same way — divide any centimeter value by 2.54 to recover inches.

How to convert online

Let the tool apply the exact factor for you:

1. Type the number of inches into the first box.
2. Read the equivalent in centimeters instantly in the second box.
3. Enter a centimeter value to convert back to inches.

Use the Inch to Centimeter Converter — free and instant in your browser.

Where this conversion is used

Inches-to-centimeters conversions come up constantly with screen and TV sizes, clothing and shoe measurements, height, furniture dimensions and international shipping, wherever imperial measurements need a metric equivalent. A 55-inch TV is about 139.7 cm wide diagonally.

FAQ

How many centimeters are in an inch?

One inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters. Ten inches equal 25.4 cm.

What is the formula to convert inches to centimeters?

Multiply the inch value by 2.54: cm = in × 2.54.

How do I convert centimeters back to inches?

Divide the centimeter value by 2.54, or multiply by 0.39370079. For example, 12.7 cm = 5 inches.

Is the conversion exact?

Yes. The inch is defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters, so there is no rounding in the factor.

Related converters

• Centimeter to Inch Converter
• Inch to Millimeter Converter
• Inch to Meter Converter
• Inch to Foot Converter

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