Meters: —
Tip: Inches should be between 0 and 11.
Use this feet and inches to meters converter to accurately convert height measurements from feet and inches into meters (m). This page explains what feet, inches, and meters are, why height is converted between these units, how to use the calculator above, and how to manually convert feet and inches to meters using the correct formula.
What Are Feet and Inches?
Feet (ft) and inches (in) are units of length in the imperial measurement system, commonly used in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Human height is often expressed using both units together, for example 5 feet 9 inches. One foot equals 12 inches, and inches are used to represent the remaining part of a height measurement.
Feet and inches are widely used in everyday conversations, job requirements, and sports measurements.
What Is a Meter?
A meter (m) is the base unit of length in the metric system and is used worldwide for scientific, medical, and official measurements. Height in meters is commonly used in countries that follow the metric system and is often required for international documents, health records, and fitness measurements.
One meter equals 100 centimeters or 39.37 inches.
Why Convert Feet and Inches to Meters?
Converting feet and inches to meters is useful when comparing height internationally, filling in medical or school forms, applying for jobs abroad, or working with metric-based systems. Many official records require height in meters rather than feet and inches, making this conversion necessary.
How to Use the Feet and Inches to Meters Calculator
Using the calculator above is simple. Enter the number of feet and inches, then click the convert button. The calculator will instantly show the height in meters. The conversion is done automatically using the correct formula to ensure accurate results.
Feet and Inches to Meters Conversion Formula
To convert feet and inches to meters, first convert the total height into inches, then multiply by 0.0254. This works because one-inch equals 0.0254 meters. Formula: meters = (feet × 12 + inches) × 0.0254.
Feet and Inches to Meters Conversion Example
For example, a height of 5 feet 8 inches is converted as follows. First convert feet to inches: 5 × 12 = 60 inches. Add the remaining inches: 60 + 8 = 68 inches. Multiply by 0.0254: 68 × 0.0254 = 1.73 meters. Therefore, 5 feet 8 inches equals approximately 1.73 meters.
Height Conversion Table (Feet and Inches to Meters)
| Height (ft/in) | Height (m) |
|---|---|
| 5’0 | 1.52 m |
| 5’3 | 1.60 m |
| 5’6 | 1.68 m |
| 5’8 | 1.73 m |
| 5’10 | 1.78 m |
| 6’0 | 1.83 m |
| 6’2 | 1.88 m |
Is Meters or Feet More Accurate?
Meters are more precise because they are part of the metric system, which is standardized globally. Feet and inches are easier to understand for everyday use in some countries, but meters provide clearer accuracy for scientific, medical, and international purposes.
When Should You Use Feet or Meters?
Feet and inches are commonly used for casual height discussions and local requirements in countries using the imperial system. Meters should be used for official documents, international records, medical forms, and fitness measurements that require metric units.
Frequently Asked Questions About Feet and Inches to Meters
How do you convert feet and inches to meters?
Convert the total height to inches, then multiply by 0.0254 to get meters.
What is 5 feet 8 inches in meters?
5 feet 8 inches equals approximately 1.73 meters.
Why are meters used for height internationally?
Meters are part of the metric system, which is used globally and provides standardized measurements.
Is feet and inches less accurate than meters?
Feet and inches are accurate, but meters are more precise and easier to use for calculations.