CM to Pixel Converter
Convert centimeters to pixels based on screen DPI (dots per inch). The standard screen resolution is 96 DPI, meaning 1 inch equals 96 pixels. Since 1 inch = 2.54 cm, the conversion uses the formula: Pixels = CM × DPI ÷ 2.54.
How to Convert CM to Pixels
- Determine the DPI (dots per inch) of your display or target output.
- Multiply the centimeter value by the DPI.
- Divide the result by 2.54 (since 1 inch = 2.54 cm).
- The result is the pixel equivalent.
Formula
Pixels = CM × DPI ÷ 2.54
Standard screen DPI = 96
Example Calculation
Convert 2.54 cm to pixels at 96 DPI:
Pixels = 2.54 × 96 ÷ 2.54 = 96 pixels
(1 inch = 96px at 96 DPI)
CM to Pixels Reference Table
| CM | 72 DPI | 96 DPI | 150 DPI | 300 DPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 cm | 14.2px | 18.9px | 29.5px | 59.1px |
| 1 cm | 28.3px | 37.8px | 59.1px | 118.1px |
| 2 cm | 56.7px | 75.6px | 118.1px | 236.2px |
| 2.54 cm | 72.0px | 96.0px | 150.0px | 300.0px |
| 5 cm | 141.7px | 189.0px | 295.3px | 590.6px |
| 10 cm | 283.5px | 378.0px | 590.6px | 1181.1px |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DPI?
DPI stands for Dots Per Inch. It measures how many pixels (dots) fit in one inch of screen or print space. Higher DPI means more detail and sharper images.
What is the standard screen DPI?
The standard screen DPI for web is 96 DPI (Windows default). macOS uses 72 DPI as its base. High-DPI (Retina) displays use 192 or higher.
What is the difference between print and screen DPI?
Screen displays typically use 72-96 DPI, while print requires 150-300 DPI for quality output. A 300 DPI print image needs more pixels per centimeter than a screen image.
What is the CM to pixel formula?
The formula is Pixels = CM × DPI ÷ 2.54. The 2.54 factor converts centimeters to inches since DPI is defined per inch.
Why does DPI matter for conversions?
DPI determines how physical measurements map to pixels. The same centimeter value produces different pixel counts at different DPI settings. Always match the DPI to your target output device.