- Digital to Physical Conversion
- Key Benefits of Converting PX to CM:
- How to Convert PX to CM
- Conversion Formula:
- Step-by-Step Conversion Process:
- Common PX to CM Conversion Values
- Measurement Scale – PX to CM:
- PX vs CM – Understanding Measurement Units
- When to Use PX Values:
- When to Use CM Values:
- Best Practices for PX to CM Conversion:
- Author
Digital to Physical Conversion
Master the conversion from digital pixels to physical centimeters!
PX to CM conversion is essential for translating digital measurements to physical dimensions. Pixels (PX) are the standard unit for digital displays, while centimeters (CM) are the fundamental unit for physical measurements, making this conversion crucial for digital-to-physical workflows and cross-platform consistency.
Why convert PX to CM? While PX units work perfectly for digital interfaces and screen-based design, CM units are essential for physical dimensions and manufacturing. Converting between these units ensures your digital designs translate accurately to physical objects and maintains measurement consistency across different media.
Key Benefits of Converting PX to CM:
- Digital to Physical Translation: Convert screen designs to physical dimensions
- Manufacturing Preparation: Prepare digital assets for physical production
- Cross-Platform Consistency: Ensure measurements work across digital and physical media
- Design System Integration: Bridge the gap between digital and physical design
- Prototyping Accuracy: Maintain measurement precision across mediums
How to Convert PX to CM
The conversion formula depends on DPI: Multiply the pixel value by 2.54 and divide by the DPI setting.
Conversion Formula:
Example (96 DPI): (38px × 2.54) ÷ 96 = 1.00cm
Example (72 DPI): (28px × 2.54) ÷ 72 = 1.00cm
Example (150 DPI): (59px × 2.54) ÷ 150 = 1.00cm
Step-by-Step Conversion Process:
- Set DPI: Choose appropriate DPI for your target output medium
- Multiply by 2.54: Convert pixels to centimeter equivalents per inch
- Divide by DPI: Convert to final centimeter value
- Round Appropriately: Apply rounding based on measurement precision needs
- Verify Output: Test measurements in target physical medium
Common PX to CM Conversion Values
Here are the most commonly used PX to CM conversions for digital to physical design. These values represent standard pixel dimensions used across different DPI settings and help maintain measurement consistency when moving from digital to physical.
Measurement Scale – PX to CM:
| PX Value | CM (96 DPI) | CM (72 DPI) | CM (150 DPI) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19px | 0.50cm | 0.67cm | 0.32cm | Small elements, borders |
| 38px | 1.00cm | 1.34cm | 0.64cm | Standard spacing, small components |
| 57px | 1.50cm | 2.00cm | 0.96cm | Medium elements, buttons |
| 76px | 2.00cm | 2.67cm | 1.28cm | Large buttons, cards |
| 94px | 2.48cm | 3.31cm | 1.59cm | Standard card width |
| 113px | 2.98cm | 3.98cm | 1.91cm | Card height, banners |
| 151px | 3.98cm | 5.31cm | 2.55cm | Hero sections, large elements |
| 189px | 4.98cm | 6.64cm | 3.18cm | Full-width elements |
| 227px | 5.98cm | 7.97cm | 3.82cm | Major layout sections |
| 265px | 6.98cm | 9.30cm | 4.46cm | Large banners, displays |
| 303px | 7.98cm | 10.64cm | 5.10cm | Full-page elements |
| 378px | 9.97cm | 13.29cm | 6.37cm | Major page sections |
| 454px | 11.97cm | 15.95cm | 7.64cm | Full-width content |
| 567px | 14.96cm | 19.94cm | 9.55cm | Large displays, posters |
| 756px | 19.95cm | 26.59cm | 12.74cm | Full-page layouts |
PX vs CM – Understanding Measurement Units
PX vs CM serve different purposes in design and manufacturing. Understanding when to use each is crucial for effective cross-platform design workflows.
When to Use PX Values:
- Web Design: Digital interfaces and responsive websites
- Mobile Apps: iOS, Android, and cross-platform applications
- Digital Displays: Monitors, TVs, and digital signage
- UI/UX Design: Interface design and user experience
- Digital Assets: Icons, graphics, and screen-based content
When to Use CM Values:
- Print Design: Physical documents and printed materials
- Physical Measurements: Real-world objects and prototypes
- Manufacturing: Product design and specifications
- Architecture: Building plans and technical drawings
- Traditional Publishing: Books, magazines, and print media
Best Practices for PX to CM Conversion:
🎯 Match Target Medium
Select DPI that matches your target output.
Print: 300 DPI • Web: 96 DPI • Screen: 72 DPI
📐 Consider Physical Scale
Account for digital to physical scale differences.
38px = 1cm at 96 DPI
🎨 Plan for Precision
Use appropriate decimal places for your design needs.
📱 Test Physical Output
Verify measurements with physical prototypes.
