Length conversion
How to convert length
Length conversion is a one-dimensional scale change. Multiply by the direct factor, or convert through meters when no familiar direct factor is available.
Open the length converterSet up the conversion ratio
target length = source length × target units per source unit
Arrange the ratio so the starting unit cancels. To convert 72 inches to feet, multiply by 1 ft/12 in. The inches cancel and the result is 6 ft.
Metric conversions use powers of ten
One meter is 100 centimeters and 1,000 millimeters. One kilometer is 1,000 meters. Moving from a larger metric unit to a smaller one increases the number: 2.4 m equals 240 cm.
Metric and imperial examples
One inch is exactly 2.54 centimeters. A length of 10 inches is 25.4 cm. One international foot is exactly 0.3048 meters, so 15 ft is 4.572 m. One international mile is 1.609344 km.
Keep dimensions separate
Length factors apply only to length. For area, square the factor; for volume, cube it. If a measurement is written as feet and inches, first combine it into one unit, such as 5 ft 8 in = 68 in, then convert.
Convert with ToolPixels
The free Length Converter converts the supported units in your browser. Enter a value, choose the source and target units, select the needed precision, and review the displayed formula before using the result.