Centimeter is 0.01 meter units.
Centimeters to Points Converter — cm to pt
Convert Centimeter (cm) to Point (pt) using the exact conversion factor (1 centimeter = 28.34645669 point). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, history, and common uses.
Centimeters to Points converter
Converter
Length Converter
Convert SI, imperial, US customary, astronomical, scientific, and historical length units.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
A desktop publishing point is 1/72 inch.
Result = input x 0.01 / 0.0003527777778.
Length uses the meter as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Centimeters to Points
Centimeter and Point both measure length. Centimeter is most often used for everyday small-object and body measurement (height, clothing sizes) outside the us.
Formula
points = centimeters × 28.3464566911
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 centimeter equals 0.01 base units, and 1 point equals 0.0003527777778 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct centimeter-to-point factor of 28.3464566911.
Simple example
1 cm × 28.34645669 = 28.34645669 pt
1 centimeter = 28.34645669 points.
Real-world example
10 cm × 28.34645669 = 283.4645669 pt
10 centimeters = 283.4645669 points.
Conversion table
| Centimeter (cm) | Point (pt) |
|---|---|
| 1 cm | 28.34645669 pt |
| 5 cm | 141.7322835 pt |
| 10 cm | 283.4645669 pt |
| 21.0975 cm | 598.03937 pt |
| 42.195 cm | 1,196.07874 pt |
| 100 cm | 2,834.645669 pt |
Reverse conversion: Point to Centimeter
28.34645669 pt × 0.03527777778 = 1 cm
28.34645669 points = 1 centimeters.
centimeters = points × 0.03527777778
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Point to Centimeter.
Understanding the Centimeter
Centimeter (cm) measures distance. A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter. It is classified as a SI derived (metric prefix) unit.
Where it's used: Standard small-length unit worldwide except the US
Uses of the Centimeter today
- Everyday small-object and body measurement (height, clothing sizes) outside the US
- Construction and manufacturing tolerances internationally
History of the Centimeter
The centimeter follows directly from the meter via the 'centi-' SI prefix (10⁻²), introduced with the metric system in the 1790s.
Historical origin. Centimeter was not the invention of a single named person; it developed through the process described above.
Understanding the Point (pt)
A desktop publishing point is 1/72 inch.
Centimeter — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — SI prefixes — Defines 'centi-' as the prefix for 10⁻².
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many points are in 1 centimeter?
1 centimeter equals 28.34645669 points, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert centimeter to point?
Multiply the centimeter value by 28.34645669. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert point back to centimeter?
Use the reverse factor: 1 point equals 0.0352777778 centimeters. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a centimeter?
Centimeter (cm) measures distance. A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter. It is classified as a SI derived (metric prefix) unit.
What is a point?
Point (pt) is a unit of length.
Is the centimeter to point conversion exact?
Yes. Both centimeter and point are defined by fixed standards rather than physical artifacts, so the factor of 28.34645669 used above is exact to as many digits as you choose to display.
Where is the centimeter still used today?
Standard small-length unit worldwide except the US