Centimeters To Millimeters Conversion (cm To Mm) - Inch Calculator

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  • Centimeters to Millimeters Converter
  • How to Convert Centimeters to Millimeters
  • How Many Millimeters Are in a Centimeter?
  • What Is a Centimeter?
  • What Is a Millimeter?
  • Centimeter to Millimeter Conversion Table
  • References
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Joe is the creator of Inch Calculator and has over 20 years of experience in engineering and construction. He holds several degrees and certifications.

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Sexton, J. (n.d.). Centimeters to Millimeters Converter. Inch Calculator. Retrieved December 9, 2025, from https://www.inchcalculator.com/convert/centimeter-to-millimeter/

How to Convert Centimeters to Millimeters

To convert a measurement in centimeters to a measurement in millimeters, multiply the length by the following conversion ratio: 10 millimeters/centimeter.

Since one centimeter is equal to 10 millimeters, you can use this simple formula to convert:

millimeters = centimeters × 10

The length in millimeters is equal to the length in centimeters multiplied by 10.

For example, here's how to convert 5 centimeters to millimeters using the formula above.

millimeters = (5 cm × 10) = 50 mm

conversion scale showing centimeters and equivalent millimeters length values

How Many Millimeters Are in a Centimeter?

There are 10 millimeters in a centimeter, which is why we use this value in the formula above.

1 cm = 10 mm

Our inch fraction calculator can add centimeters and millimeters together, and it also automatically converts the results to US customary, imperial, and SI metric values.

Centimeters and millimeters are both units used to measure length. Keep reading to learn more about each unit of measure.

What Is a Centimeter?

One centimeter is equal to one-hundredth (1/100) of a meter, which is defined as the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second. One centimeter is equal to 0.393701 inches.

The centimeter, or centimetre, is a multiple of the meter, which is the SI base unit for length. In the metric system, "centi" is the prefix for hundredths, or 10-2. Centimeters can be abbreviated as cm; for example, 1 centimeter can be written as 1 cm.

Metric rulers typically have 30 cm, which are represented by 30 large tick marks. To get a rough idea of the actual length of a centimeter, a standard number 2 pencil is just about 1 cm thick.

Learn more about centimeters.

What Is a Millimeter?

One millimeter is equal to one-thousandth (1/1,000) of a meter, which is defined as the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second. One millimeter is equal to 0.0393701 inches.

The millimeter, or millimetre, is a multiple of the meter, which is the SI base unit for length. In the metric system, "milli" is the prefix for thousandths, or 10-3. Millimeters can be abbreviated as mm; for example, 1 millimeter can be written as 1 mm.

Millimeters are often represented by the smallest ticks on most metric rulers. To get a reference point of the size, the thickness of a US dime is 1.35mm.[1]

Learn more about millimeters.

We recommend using a ruler or tape measure for measuring length, which can be found at a local retailer or home center. Rulers are available in imperial, metric, or a combination of both values, so make sure you get the correct type for your needs.

Need a ruler? Try our free downloadable and printable rulers, which include both imperial and metric measurements.

Centimeter to Millimeter Conversion Table

Table showing various centimeter measurements converted to millimeters.
Centimeters Millimeters
0.1 cm 1 mm
0.2 cm 2 mm
0.3 cm 3 mm
0.4 cm 4 mm
0.5 cm 5 mm
0.6 cm 6 mm
0.7 cm 7 mm
0.8 cm 8 mm
0.9 cm 9 mm
1 cm 10 mm

References

  1. United States Mint, Coin Specifications, https://www.usmint.gov/learn/coin-and-medal-programs/coin-specifications

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