Convert centimeters to inches
Converting centimeters to inches is a common length task, whether you are checking a recipe, a spec sheet, a travel distance or a homework problem. Since 1 cm equals 0.393701 in, the math is a single multiplication — and this page does it for you instantly, with the formula, a table of common values and answers to the questions people ask most.
Exact factor
How to convert centimeters to inches
To convert centimeters to inches, multiply the number of centimeters by 0.393701. For example, 10 cm × 0.393701 = 3.93701 in.
in = cm × 0.393701
- Write down the value in centimeters you want to convert.
- Multiply it by 0.393701 (the exact cm→in factor).
- The result is your value in inches. Check it below with the converter or the table.
Conversion table
Common values of centimeters and their equivalents in inches:
| cm | in |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.393701 |
| 2 | 0.787402 |
| 3 | 1.1811 |
| 4 | 1.5748 |
| 5 | 1.9685 |
| 10 | 3.93701 |
| 20 | 7.87402 |
| 25 | 9.84252 |
| 50 | 19.685 |
| 100 | 39.3701 |
| 250 | 98.4252 |
| 500 | 196.85 |
About these units
Centimeter (cm). A centimeter is one hundredth of a meter, roughly the width of a fingernail. It is the everyday unit for body measurements, clothing sizes and small objects in metric countries.
Inch (in). An inch is a unit of the imperial and US customary systems, legally defined as exactly 25.4 millimeters since 1959. It is used for screen sizes, tools and construction in the United States.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert centimeters to inches?
To convert centimeters to inches, multiply the number of centimeters by 0.393701. For example, 10 cm × 0.393701 = 3.93701 in. Or skip the math: type the value into the converter at the top of this page and the result updates instantly.
How many inches are in 1 centimeter?
1 cm = 0.393701 in. That is the fixed relationship used by this converter and by international standards.
How many centimeters are in 1 inch?
1 in = 2.54 cm. If you are converting in the opposite direction, use our Inch to Centimeter converter for the dedicated table and FAQ.
Is the centimeters to inches conversion exact?
Yes. Both units are defined by international agreement, so the factor of 0.393701 is exact. Displayed results are rounded to 6 significant digits only for readability.
What is centimeter used for?
A centimeter is one hundredth of a meter, roughly the width of a fingernail. It is the everyday unit for body measurements, clothing sizes and small objects in metric countries.