How to convert meters to feet
To convert a measurement in meters to feet, multiply the value by 3.28084. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the meter (the SI base unit of length).
For example, to convert 5 m to feet: 5 × 3.28084 = 16.404199 ft.
What is a meter?
A meter is the SI base unit of length, defined as the distance light travels in vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second. Originally defined in 1793 as one ten-millionth of the distance from the equator to the North Pole. Redefined in 1983 using the speed of light, making it one of the most precisely defined units in science.
Common uses of meters include: Building construction and architecture; Athletic track events (100m, 200m, 400m); Room dimensions and furniture sizing; Scientific measurements and lab work.
What is a foot?
A foot is an imperial unit of length equal to 12 inches or exactly 0.3048 meters. One of the oldest units of measurement, based on the human foot. Used in ancient civilizations from Egypt to Rome. The international foot was defined as exactly 0.3048 meters in 1959.
Common uses of feet include: Human height in the US and UK (e.g. 5'10"); Room dimensions and ceiling height; Aviation altitude measurement worldwide; Construction and building codes in imperial countries.
When you need to convert meters to feet
Real estate listings, room dimensions, and building heights are expressed in meters in most countries but feet in the US and UK. Home buyers comparing international properties need this conversion regularly.
Meters to feet worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 m = 3.28084 ft 5 m = 16.404199 ft 10 m = 32.808399 ft 50 m = 164.041995 ft 100 m = 328.08399 ft
Frequently asked questions
How many feet are in one meter?
One meter (m) equals 3.28084 feet (ft). Multiply any value in meters by 3.28084 to convert to feet.
How do I convert meters to feet?
Multiply the value in meters by 3.28084. For example, 5 m × 3.28084 = 16.404199 ft.
How do I convert feet to meters?
Multiply the value in feet by 0.3048, or divide by 3.28084. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the meter to foot conversion exact?
Yes, the conversion is exact. Since 1959, one inch is defined as exactly 25.4 mm (the international yard and pound agreement), so all metric-imperial length conversions use exact factors.
What is the formula for meters to feet?
The formula is: ft = m × 3.28084. This is derived from the definition of both units relative to the meter (the SI base unit of length).