Minimal, fast, and user-friendly unit converter. Convert metric units, imperial units, and US customary units effortlessly. Supports length, weight, volume, temperature, time, speed, energy, and more.
Historically, many different systems of units have been used. A system of units is a collection of units of measurement with rules that relate them to each other. A unit of measurement is a defined magnitude of a quantity used as a standard for measurement for length, weight, volume, and more.
Earlier systems could be arbitrary, such as the length of a king's thumb. Over time, universal and consistent systems developed. Today, the metric system, the imperial system, and US customary units are in use. The International System of Units (SI) is the globally accepted standard.
In the 8th and 9th centuries, the Arabs used coins, like the silver dirhem, to measure weight. Ten dirhems made a Wukryeh (Latin "uncia"), origin of "ounce." Europe later standardized the pound as 16 ounces or 7200 grains. England’s avoirdupois system (16 ounces, 7000 grains) became standard by the 16th century and is now defined as 0.45359237 kilograms.
In 1668, John Wilkins proposed a decimal system linking length, area, volume, and mass. Later, Gabriel Mouton suggested basing it on Earth's circumference. Standardization progressed with Thomas Jefferson's proposals and French scientists' decimal system. By 1795, France officially adopted the metric system, spreading across Europe over the next century. The International System of Units (SI) was published in 1960.
Unit converters help communicate measurements effectively across different systems. Whether you are using metric units, imperial units, or US customary units, a unit calculator ensures accuracy and consistency. Use it to convert distances, weights, volumes, temperatures, and more efficiently.