Character (X) to Centimeter Conversion

Convert between Character (X) and Centimeter quickly and accurately.

From Character (X)

char

To Centimeter

How to Convert Character (X) to Centimeter

Conversion Formula

1 char = 0.212 cm

1 cm = 4.724 char

Example

Convert 15 char to cm:

15 char = 15 × 0.212 cm = 3.175 cm

Unit Information

Learn about the typography units you're converting between

Character (X)

char

Definition

Character (X) represents the average width of characters in a font, used for horizontal measurements in typography. One character (X) equals 120 twips, providing a font-relative unit for text layout calculations.

History/Origin

Character (X) measurements were developed in early computer typography to provide font-relative horizontal spacing. The unit allows for proportional text layout that adapts to different font sizes and families.

Current Use

Character (X) units are used in programming, document layout, and typography for calculating text width, column sizing, and horizontal spacing that scales proportionally with font size changes.

Multiplier

120

Offset

Centimeter

Definition

A centimeter is one-hundredth of a meter, commonly used in typography for medium-scale measurements. One centimeter equals 566.9291338583 twips, providing a practical unit for document layout and typographic spacing.

History/Origin

The centimeter is part of the metric system, derived from the meter. It has been widely adopted internationally for scientific, engineering, and commercial measurements, including typography and graphic design.

Current Use

Centimeters are extensively used in typography for measuring margins, column widths, font sizes, and spacing in both print and digital media, especially in international publishing and design standards.

Multiplier

566.929

Offset