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Point Conversion Table
This comprehensive point conversion table shows how various units relate to points, the standard unit for typography. Use this reference for quick conversions between points and other common typography units.
| Conversion | To Unit | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Points to picas | Picas | 0.083333 |
| Points to ems | Ems | Depends on font size |
| Points to ens | Ens | Depends on font size |
| Points to pixels | Pixels | ~1.33 (at 96 DPI) |
| Points to rems | Rems | Depends on root font size |
| Points to ex | Ex | Depends on font x-height |
| Points to ch | Ch | Depends on font zero width |
| Points to viewport width | Viewport Width | Depends on screen width |
| Points to viewport height | Viewport Height | Depends on screen height |
| Points to millimeters | Millimeters | 0.352778 |
| Points to centimeters | Centimeters | 0.035278 |
| Points to inches | Inches | 0.013889 |
This point conversion reference table provides accurate conversion factors for both typography and absolute units. All values are based on standard typographic conventions and common screen densities (96 DPI).
What is a Point?
The point (symbol: pt) is a unit of length used in typography and printing. In digital typography, the point is defined as exactly 1/72 of an inch, which is approximately 0.352778 millimeters. This definition, known as the DTP (Desktop Publishing) point, is the standard used in most modern computer applications and CSS.
The point is used worldwide as the standard unit for specifying font sizes, leading, and other measurements in typography. Our point conversion tool helps you easily convert between points and other units. For example, 12 points equals 1 pica or approximately 4.23 millimeters.
What is the Standard of Point?
The point is a specialized unit for typography, with several historical definitions. The current standard is the DTP point, which is defined as exactly 1/72 of an inch. This provides a precise relationship to absolute units:
- 1 point (pt) = 1/72 inch = 0.013889 inches
- 1 point (pt) = 0.352778 millimeters
- 1 point (pt) = 0.035278 centimeters
- 12 points (pt) = 1 pica
- 72 points (pt) = 1 inch
What are Points Used For?
Points are used in a wide range of applications in typography and design. As the standard unit for font sizing, points provide a consistent measure for all typographic conversions:
Typography & Font Sizing
Setting font sizes for body text, headings, and captions. For example, body text is typically 10-12 points, while headings might be 18-36 points.
Print Design
Specifying margins, leading (line spacing), and other layout measurements. For example, a standard business card might have 8-point text.
Digital Publishing
Creating e-books, PDFs, and other digital documents with consistent sizing. For example, a PDF document might specify 16-point headings.
Web Design
Although less common in CSS (pixels are preferred), points are still used in print stylesheets. For example, specifying 9-point footnotes in a print stylesheet.
Etymology and History
The word "point" comes from the Latin "punctum," meaning "a small hole" or "puncture." In typography, the point system was developed in the 18th century by Pierre Simon Fournier and later refined by François-Ambroise Didot. These early systems defined the point as approximately 0.376 millimeters.
In the 20th century, the American Type Founders Association standardized the point at 0.013837 inches. With the advent of desktop publishing in the 1980s, the DTP point was defined as exactly 1/72 inch (0.352778 mm) to simplify digital typography calculations. This definition is now used in all major design software and typography systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the point used in typography?
The point is used because it provides a standardized, precise unit for specifying font sizes and layout measurements. Its relationship to inches (72 points = 1 inch) makes it mathematically convenient for designers and printers. This standardization ensures consistent typography across different systems and applications.
How accurate is the point definition?
The DTP point is exactly defined as 1/72 of an inch, which is 0.352778 millimeters. This precise mathematical definition ensures complete reproducibility across all digital systems. For typographic conversions, this accuracy is essential for maintaining consistent design across different media.
What's the difference between point and pica?
A pica is a larger unit used in typography, equal to 12 points. Points are used for finer measurements like font sizes, while picas are often used for larger layout dimensions. For example, you might specify a 12-point font size but measure column widths in picas.
How do I convert points to other units?
Use our point conversion calculators above, or multiply by the appropriate conversion factor. For example, to convert points to inches, divide by 72; to convert points to millimeters, multiply by 0.352778. For detailed instructions on converting points to picas, visit our pt to pica converter.
What are common uses for point conversion?
Point conversion is essential in graphic design (setting text sizes), publishing (creating print layouts), web development (print stylesheets), and education (teaching typography). Whether calculating font sizes for a brochure or converting design specifications, our point converter tool simplifies these everyday tasks.
How does point conversion differ from other length units?
Points are specifically designed for typography and have a fixed relationship to inches (72 points = 1 inch). This makes point conversion particularly straightforward for design work, compared to converting between unrelated units like pixels and centimeters which depend on screen resolution.
Can I convert very small or very large measurements in points?
Yes, our point converter handles both extremely small and large measurements with precision. For very fine typography work, you might convert points to thousandths of a point. For large format printing, you might convert points to inches or millimeters. Our smart rounding feature ensures readable results for all scales.
Is your point conversion tool free to use?
Yes, our point conversion calculator is completely free with no registration required. Simply enter your value, select your target unit, and get instant, accurate results. We believe precise typographic conversion should be accessible to everyone, from students learning typography to professionals working on complex design projects.