1 centimeter to inches
1 centimeter = 0.3937 inches
Formula: inches = centimeters x 0.3937
One centimeter is the finest gradation on most metric rulers, and Americans frequently need its inch value when reading the dimensions of imported products or craft patterns.
How to Convert centimeters to inches
Centimeters and inches share an exact definition: since 1959, one inch has equalled exactly 25.4 millimeters, which is 2.54 centimeters. So one centimeter is exactly 1 divided by 2.54, about 0.3937007874 inches.
The formula is inches = centimeters x 0.3937. Multiply your value by the factor: 1 x 0.3937 = 0.3937 inches.
The reverse is just as direct: 0.3937 inches equals 1 centimeter. That symmetry is a quick way to sanity-check any conversion you make.
centimeters to inches Conversion Table
Use this table to read off nearby values at a glance. The highlighted row is the 1-centimeters conversion from this page.
| centimeters | inches |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.3937 |
| 2 | 0.7874 |
| 3 | 1.1811 |
| 4 | 1.5748 |
| 5 | 1.9685 |
| 6 | 2.3622 |
| 7 | 2.7559 |
| 8 | 3.1496 |
| 9 | 3.5433 |
| 10 | 3.937 |
Reverse: inches to centimeters
Need to go the other way? 0.3937 inches converts back to 1 centimeter. For the full breakdown in that direction, see 1 inch to centimeters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 1 centimeter in inches?
1 centimeter is 0.3937 inches. Because the inch is fixed at exactly 25.4 millimeters worldwide, this length conversion is precise rather than rounded.
How precise is the centimeters-to-inches conversion?
As precise as it gets. The inch equals exactly 2.54 centimeters under the 1959 standard, so the underlying factor is perfect; the only approximation is how many decimal places we choose to show.
What is 0.3937 inches back in centimeters?
Going back the other way lands on 1 centimeter, your original measurement. The inch converter linked below will reverse any length in a tap.
Convert Any Value
Need a different number or unit? Open the Inch Converter to convert length between any units instantly.
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Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and may not reflect exact values.
Last updated: June 13, 2026