Convert between length units
Our free length converter instantly converts between all common units of length and distance including meters, feet, inches, kilometers, miles, centimeters, yards, and more. Perfect for construction, travel planning, education, and everyday measurements.
Converting between length units is simple with our tool. Enter the measurement value you want to convert, select the unit you're converting from (such as meters or feet), and choose the unit you want to convert to (like kilometers or miles). Click Convert to see the result instantly. The tool supports all common length units used worldwide, making it easy to work with different measurement systems.
Metric System: The metric system (SI units) includes millimeters (mm), centimeters (cm), meters (m), and kilometers (km). This decimal-based system is used globally and makes conversions straightforward - 1 meter equals 100 centimeters or 1000 millimeters. The metric system is used in science, most countries worldwide, and international trade.
Imperial System: The imperial system includes inches (in), feet (ft), yards (yd), and miles (mi). Primarily used in the United States, this system has less intuitive conversions - 1 foot equals 12 inches, 1 yard equals 3 feet, and 1 mile equals 5,280 feet. Despite its complexity, it remains common in American construction, real estate, and daily life.
Construction professionals convert between imperial and metric measurements when working with international specifications or imported materials. Travelers convert distances between kilometers and miles when driving in different countries or planning trip distances. Real estate agents convert property dimensions for international clients. Students convert measurements for science assignments and physics problems. DIY enthusiasts convert tool specifications and material dimensions. Athletes track running or swimming distances in preferred units. Manufacturers convert product dimensions for different markets. Engineers work with both systems depending on project requirements and international standards.
Memorizing these common conversions helps with quick mental calculations:
• 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters (exactly)
• 1 foot = 30.48 centimeters or about 0.3 meters
• 1 yard = 0.9144 meters (just under 1 meter)
• 1 mile = 1.609 kilometers
• 1 meter = 3.281 feet or about 39.37 inches
• 1 kilometer = 0.621 miles
These conversions are used daily in international contexts, from reading foreign road signs to understanding product specifications.
The metric system was developed in France during the 1790s to create a universal, decimal-based measurement system. Its logical structure makes scientific calculations easier and reduces errors. Most countries adopted it through the 20th century. The United States remains one of few countries still primarily using imperial units, largely due to the massive cost of converting infrastructure, manufacturing, and education systems. However, the US does use metric in science, medicine, and the military. Understanding both systems is valuable in our globalized world.
Our converter provides precise conversions based on internationally recognized conversion factors. For most everyday purposes, rounding to 2-3 decimal places is sufficient. However, in scientific, engineering, or manufacturing contexts, greater precision may be needed. When accuracy is critical, always use exact conversion factors and consider the precision limitations of your measuring tools. Remember that converting between systems can introduce small rounding errors when working with many decimal places.
All conversions are calculated locally in your browser using mathematically accurate conversion factors. No data is sent to servers. The tool works offline and provides instant, precise conversions suitable for both casual use and professional applications.