Convert Units Instantly
Select a category, choose your units, and enter a value to convert
From
LengthTo
Lengthhistory Conversion History
straighten Common Length Conversions
| From | To | Multiply By |
|---|---|---|
| 1 meter | feet | 3.28084 |
| 1 kilometer | miles | 0.621371 |
| 1 centimeter | inches | 0.393701 |
| 1 foot | meters | 0.3048 |
| 1 mile | kilometers | 1.60934 |
scale Common Weight Conversions
| From | To | Multiply By |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kilogram | pounds | 2.20462 |
| 1 pound | kilograms | 0.453592 |
| 1 ounce | grams | 28.3495 |
| 1 gram | ounces | 0.035274 |
| 1 stone | kilograms | 6.35029 |
About Unit Conversion
Understanding measurement systems and conversion factors is essential for science, engineering, cooking, travel, and everyday life.
info Measurement Systems
The world uses two main measurement systems: Metric (meters, kilograms, liters) used by most countries, and Imperial (feet, pounds, gallons) primarily used in the United States. Our converter handles both systems seamlessly.
calculate Conversion Accuracy
Our converter uses precise, internationally recognized conversion factors. For temperature conversions, we use exact mathematical formulas rather than approximations to ensure maximum accuracy.
lightbulb Conversion Tips
Remember that temperature conversions require formulas, not simple multiplication. Celsius to Fahrenheit: (°C × 9/5) + 32. Fahrenheit to Celsius: (°F - 32) × 5/9. For length, 1 inch = 2.54 cm exactly. For weight, 1 kg = 2.20462 pounds.
More Calculation Tools
Understanding Measurement Systems
A deeper look at Metric and Imperial units
straighten Metric System
The Metric System (SI) is used by most countries worldwide. It's based on powers of ten, making conversions simple – just move the decimal point. For example, 1 kilometer = 1000 meters, 1 meter = 100 centimeters. It's the standard for science and medicine.
crop_square Imperial System
The Imperial System (also called US Customary Units) is primarily used in the United States. It includes feet, inches, pounds, and gallons. Conversions are less straightforward (e.g., 1 foot = 12 inches, 1 pound = 16 ounces). Our converter handles both systems with ease.
history A Brief History
The metric system was developed during the French Revolution (1790s) to create a universal, decimal‑based system. Imperial units evolved from older English units, with definitions often based on human body parts (e.g., foot). Today, even the US defines its units in relation to metric standards.
How to Use the Unit Converter
Step‑by‑step guide for perfect conversions
touch_app 1. Choose Category
Click on one of the category cards above: Length, Weight, Temperature, or Area. The converter will automatically update to show units from that category.
arrow_drop_down 2. Select Units
Pick the unit you want to convert from in the left dropdown, and the target unit in the right dropdown. The default "From" and "To" units are chosen for convenience.
edit 3. Enter Value
Type the number you wish to convert in the left input field. The result appears instantly on the right. You can also use the quick conversion buttons below for common values.
swap_horiz 4. Swap Units
Click the circular swap button to exchange the "From" and "To" units. This is handy when you want to reverse a conversion (e.g., feet to meters instead of meters to feet).
Common Conversion Scenarios
Real‑world examples where unit conversion matters
restaurant Cooking & Baking
Recipes often use different units: grams vs. ounces, milliliters vs. cups. Our converter helps you scale ingredients accurately. For example, 1 cup of flour is approximately 120 grams.
flight Travel
When traveling abroad, you'll encounter kilometers instead of miles, Celsius instead of Fahrenheit. Quickly convert distances, temperatures, and luggage weight limits.
science Science & Education
In labs and classrooms, measurements are often in metric. Convert between units for experiments, homework, or research papers. Precision matters – our converter uses exact factors.
construction Engineering & DIY
Building projects may mix imperial and metric (e.g., a 2x4 lumber size vs. metric screws). Convert lengths and areas to avoid costly mistakes.
fitness_center Fitness & Health
Track your weight in kilograms or pounds, distances in miles or kilometers. Convert your running pace or weight loss goals easily.
Conversion Tips & Tricks
Quick mental shortcuts for everyday conversions
straighten Length
- cm → inches: divide by 2.5 (approx.)
- inches → cm: multiply by 2.5
- miles → km: multiply by 1.6
- km → miles: divide by 1.6
- feet → meters: divide by 3.28
scale Weight
- kg → lbs: multiply by 2.2
- lbs → kg: divide by 2.2
- grams → ounces: divide by 28.35
- ounces → grams: multiply by 28.35
- stone → kg: multiply by 6.35
thermostat Temperature
- °C → °F: double and add 30 (rough)
- °F → °C: subtract 30, then halve
- Exact: °F = °C × 9/5 + 32
- 0°C = 32°F, 100°C = 212°F
crop_square Area
- sq m → sq ft: multiply by 10.764
- sq ft → sq m: divide by 10.764
- acres → hectares: divide by 2.471
- hectares → acres: multiply by 2.471
memory Remember Key Numbers
1 inch = 2.54 cm (exact). 1 kg = 2.20462 lbs. 1 mile = 1.60934 km. 1 gallon = 3.78541 liters. Memorizing these helps you estimate quickly.
Unit Conversion Formulas
Exact factors used by our converter
straighten Length
- 1 km = 1000 m
- 1 m = 100 cm
- 1 cm = 10 mm
- 1 mile = 1609.34 m
- 1 yard = 0.9144 m
- 1 foot = 0.3048 m
- 1 inch = 0.0254 m
scale Weight
- 1 tonne = 1000 kg
- 1 kg = 1000 g
- 1 lb = 0.45359237 kg
- 1 oz = 28.349523125 g
- 1 stone = 6.35029318 kg
thermostat Temperature
- °F = °C × 9/5 + 32
- °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9
- K = °C + 273.15
- °C = K − 273.15
crop_square Area
- 1 km² = 1,000,000 m²
- 1 hectare = 10,000 m²
- 1 acre = 4046.8564224 m²
- 1 ft² = 0.09290304 m²
- 1 in² = 0.00064516 m²
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about unit conversion