Convert Centimeters to Inches
1 Centimeter (cm) = 0.393701 Inches (in). Use the free converter below to instantly convert any centimeter value to inches, or view the full conversion table and formula.
1 cm = 0.393701 in
Centimeter to Inch Conversion Table
How to Convert Centimeters to Inches
To convert centimeters to inches, divide the length in centimeters by 2.54. This works because 1 inch is defined as exactly 2.54 centimeters. Alternatively, you can multiply the centimeter value by 0.3937 to get the equivalent in inches. For example, to convert 25 cm to inches: 25 ÷ 2.54 = 9.8425 inches.
Worked Example: Convert 5 cm to in
Start with the value in centimeters
5 cm
Apply the formula
inches = 5 ÷ 2.54
Calculate the result
5 cm = 1.9685 in
Centimeter to Inch Examples
1 cm is equal to 0.3937 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 1 cm converts to 0.3937 in.
2 cm is equal to 0.7874 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 2 cm converts to 0.7874 in.
3 cm is equal to 1.1811 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 3 cm converts to 1.1811 in.
5 cm is equal to 1.9685 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 5 cm converts to 1.9685 in.
10 cm is equal to 3.937 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 10 cm converts to 3.937 in.
15 cm is equal to 5.9055 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 15 cm converts to 5.9055 in.
20 cm is equal to 7.874 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 20 cm converts to 7.874 in.
25 cm is equal to 9.8425 in. Using the formula cm ÷ 2.54, 25 cm converts to 9.8425 in.
Converting Inches to Centimeters
Need the reverse conversion? Use the table below for a quick reference converting inches back to centimeters.
| Inches (in) | Centimeters (cm) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.54 |
| 2 | 5.08 |
| 3 | 7.62 |
| 4 | 10.16 |
| 5 | 12.7 |
| 6 | 15.24 |
Centimeters to Inches FAQ
How many inches are in 1 cm?
1 centimeter is equal to approximately 0.3937 inches. This is derived from the exact definition that 1 inch equals 2.54 centimeters.
What is the formula to convert cm to inches?
To convert centimeters to inches, divide the centimeter value by 2.54, or equivalently multiply by 0.3937. For example, 10 cm ÷ 2.54 = 3.937 inches.
Is 1 inch exactly 2.54 cm?
Yes. Since 1959, the international inch has been defined as exactly 25.4 millimeters, or 2.54 centimeters. This is an exact conversion with no rounding.
How do I convert cm to inches in my head?
A quick mental trick: divide the cm value by 2.5 for a rough estimate. For more accuracy, multiply by 0.4. For example, 20 cm × 0.4 = 8 inches (exact: 7.874).
Understanding Centimeters and Inches
What is a Centimeter (cm)?
The centimeter (cm) is a unit of length in the metric system. It is commonly abbreviated as cm and relates to inches by a factor of 0.393701.
What is an Inch (in)?
The inch (in) is a unit of length in the imperial system. It is commonly abbreviated as in and relates to centimeters by a factor of 2.54.