Point (Computer) to Character (X) Conversion

Convert between Point (Computer) and Character (X) quickly and accurately.

From Point (Computer)

To Character (X)

char

How to Convert Point (Computer) to Character (X)

Conversion Formula

1 pt = 0.167 char

1 char = 6 pt

Example

Convert 15 pt to char:

15 pt = 15 × 0.167 char = 2.5 char

Unit Information

Learn about the typography units you're converting between

Point (Computer)

Definition

A computer point is a digital typography unit equivalent to the PostScript point, used in computer-based design applications. One computer point equals 20 twips, providing consistent font sizing across digital platforms.

History/Origin

The computer point was developed to standardize point measurements in digital typography, ensuring consistency between different computer systems and design applications in the digital publishing industry.

Current Use

Computer points are used in digital design software, web browsers, and computer-based publishing for font sizing, text layout, and typographic measurements that maintain consistency across digital platforms.

Multiplier

Offset

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