Universal Length Converter
Convert Metric, Imperial, and Scientific units instantly.
Metric Units
Imperial Units
Space & Science
Real World Scale
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Mastering Length Conversion
Whether you are an architect working with Imperial units, a student calculating physics problems in Nanometers, or an astronomer measuring distances in Parsecs, precise length conversion is essential. Our Universal Length Converter simplifies this by handling all standard and scientific units in one interface.
Comprehensive Unit Support
Metric System (SI)
The global standard. Based on powers of 10. Includes Kilometers, Meters, Centimeters, Millimeters, Micrometers, and Nanometers.
Imperial System
Used in the USA and UK. Includes Miles, Yards, Feet, and Inches. Complex base factors (12, 3, 1760).
Astronomical Units
For vast space distances. Includes Light Years (distance light travels in a year), Parsecs, and AU (distance from Earth to Sun).
How to Use This Converter
- Type Anywhere: There is no "source" field. Typing in any input box specifically updates all others instantly.
- Check Real-World Scale: Look at the "Real World Scale" widget to visualize the distance. Is it a football field? A mountain? A human hair?
- Save History: Click "Save" to remember a specific measurement. It stays in your browser for your next visit.
- Export Data: Need a report? Click "Export" to download a text file summary of your current conversions.
- Print Report: Use the "Print" button to generate a clean, ink-friendly report page perfect for handing to a client or teacher.
Common Conversion Factors (Cheat Sheet)
| From Unit | Metric Equivalent | Imperial Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Meter (m) | 100 cm | 3.28084 ft |
| 1 Inch (in) | 2.54 cm | 0.0833 ft |
| 1 Foot (ft) | 30.48 cm | 12 in |
| 1 Yard (yd) | 0.9144 m | 3 ft |
| 1 Mile (mi) | 1.60934 km | 5,280 ft |
| 1 Light Year | 9.461 trillion km | 5.879 trillion mi |
Who Needs Length Conversion?
Construction & Architecture
Translating blueprints between Metric (used globally) and Imperial (used in US construction). Converting survey data from chains or links to meters.
Physics & Engineering
Working with Nanometers for wavelengths of light, Micrometers for chip fabrication, or Angstroms for atomic bonds.
Navigation & Aviation
Pilots and sailors use Nautical Miles. Altitude is often measured in Feet, while runway lengths might be in Meters.
Astronomy
Calculating distances to stars using Parsecs or Light Years. Converting AU (distance to Sun) for planetary missions.
Why Use This Converter?
100% Private & Free
Calculations happen on your device. We never see your data.
Instant Updates
No "Calculate" button. Results appear as you type.
Pillar Tool Standard
Includes History, Export, and Print features designed for professionals.
Export Data
Download your calculations to keep a permanent record.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert meters to feet?
To convert meters to feet, multiply the number of meters by 3.28084. For example, 2 meters × 3.28084 = 6.56168 feet. In our tool, simply type '2' in the Meters field, and the Feet conversion will appear instantly.
What is the difference between Metric and Imperial systems?
The Metric system (SI) is decimal-based (factors of 10) and used globally for science and general measurement (Meters, Kilometers). The Imperial system is older, uses irregular bases (12 inches = 1 foot, 3 feet = 1 yard), and is primarily used in the United States, Liberia, and Myanmar.
How long is a Light Year exactly?
A Light Year is the distance light travels in a vacuum in one Julian year (365.25 days). It is exactly 9,460,730,472,580,800 meters (approx 9.46 trillion km or 5.88 trillion miles). It is used to measure vast cosmic distances.
Why does the tool show scientific notation (e.g., 1.5e+11)?
For extremely large values (like Light Years converted to Millimeters) or tiny values (Nanometers to Miles), standard numbers become too long to read. Scientific notation (e.g., 1.5e+11) is a standard way to represent these numbers, meaning 1.5 × 10^11.
How many inches are in a centimeter?
There are approximately 0.3937 inches in one centimeter. Conversely, there are exactly 2.54 centimeters in one inch.
What is a Parsec?
A Parsec (pc) is a unit of length used in astronomy, equal to about 3.26 light-years (3.086 × 10^16 meters). It is defined as the distance at which one astronomical unit subtends an angle of one arcsecond.
Can I use this tool offline?
Yes! Once this page is loaded, all conversions happen locally in your browser using JavaScript. You can disconnect your internet and continue converting units indefinitely.
What is a Nautical Mile?
A Nautical Mile is used in air and marine navigation. It is based on the circumference of the Earth and is equal to exactly 1,852 meters (about 1.15 standard land miles).
What are the smallest and largest units supported?
We support Nanometers (1 billionth of a meter) for microscopic scales and Parsecs (approx 31 trillion kilometers) for galactic scales, covering essentially the entire observable universe.
Is this converter accurate for scientific work?
Yes. We use standard IEEE 754 double-precision floating-point math with exact conversion factors defined by international standards (e.g., 1 in = 2.54 cm exactly). However, for extreme precision applications (beyond 15 significant digits), specialized software is recommended.