Centimeters to Pixels Converter

How the Centimeters to Pixels (cm to px) Converter Works

Converting centimeters (cm) to pixels (px) is essential for those working in graphic design, web development, or print production. This conversion bridges the gap between physical dimensions and digital measurements, ensuring accuracy and consistency across media.

The relationship between centimeters and pixels depends on the pixel density, or pixels per inch (PPI). The standard for web is 96 PPI, meaning one inch contains 96 pixels. Since one inch equals 2.54 cm, 1 cm equals approximately 37.8 pixels.

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What is a pixel and how does it relate to centimeters?

A pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image, representing a single point of color on a screen. A centimeter is a physical unit of length. The conversion between them is determined by the PPI (pixels per inch) setting of the device or medium.

For instance, on a screen with 96 PPI, one inch (2.54 cm) contains 96 pixels. Thus, 1 cm = 96 / 2.54 ≈ 37.8 px.

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How the cm to px conversion works

To convert centimeters to pixels, use the formula:

pixels = centimeters × (PPI / 2.54)

Where:

• centimeters is the value you want to convert,

• PPI is the pixel density (typically 96 for web),

• 2.54 is the number of centimeters in one inch.

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Formula to convert cm to px

The standard formula for the conversion is:

px = cm × (PPI / 2.54)

Example: To convert 5 cm with 96 PPI:

px = 5 × (96 / 2.54) ≈ 189 px

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Practical conversion examples

Here are a few examples using 96 PPI:

• 1 cm ≈ 37.8 px

• 2 cm ≈ 75.6 px

• 5 cm ≈ 189 px

• 10 cm ≈ 378 px

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Conversion table from cm to px (96 PPI)

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Understanding different PPI values

Pixel density varies by device:

• 96 PPI: standard for web

• 300 PPI: common for high-quality print

• 72 PPI: used in some legacy applications

Knowing the target device's PPI is crucial for accurate conversion.

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Digital vs. physical measurement differences

Pixels don’t have a fixed physical size. The same pixel count can appear larger or smaller depending on screen resolution or print settings.

• Higher PPI = smaller physical size per pixel

• For print, use cm or inches directly with proper PPI to maintain fidelity

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula to convert centimeters to pixels?

Use px = cm × (PPI / 2.54). With a standard 96 PPI, multiply centimeters by 37.8 to get the approximate pixel value.

What is PPI and why is it important?

PPI (Pixels Per Inch) measures pixel density. It tells you how many pixels fit in one inch. It's essential for determining how large a digital image will appear in the physical world.

Can I use the same conversion for print and web?

No. Web uses 96 PPI, while print usually requires 300 PPI for sharp output. Use the appropriate PPI based on your intended medium to ensure correct dimensions.

Is there a difference between DPI and PPI?

Yes. PPI (pixels per inch) is for screens, and DPI (dots per inch) is for printers. Though they’re often confused, they apply to different contexts and technologies.

How do I convert pixels to centimeters?

Use the inverse formula: cm = px × (2.54 / PPI). This helps determine the real-world size of a digital image when printed or displayed at a specific resolution.