Being surrounded by so many different things in life, being curious about the exact measurements isn’t too much of a stretch. When it comes to finding out about items that are exactly or around 5 inches long, there are several things around you that measure as such.
Five inches, a measurement commonly encountered in various contexts, is often hard to visualize. But what exactly does 5 inches look like in everyday life?
To give you a better idea and context, we will examine a list of things surrounding us that are roughly 5 inches in length.
How Much is 5 Inches in Other Metric Units?
Before we delve into a list of items that are 5 inches long, let us sort out the basic metric unit measurements so it’s easier for you to visualize how long 5 inches is in terms of cm, m, and km.
5 Inch in Kilometers = 0.000127 kilometers
5 Inch in Meters = 0.127 meters
5 Inch in Cm = 12.7 centimeters
10 Things That Are 5 Inches Long
Now that you understand the basic metric measurements let’s take a closer look at a list of things around you that are around 5 inches long.
1. Smartphone Screen
While it is true that the majority of the smartphones you come across at present are around 6” and above, there are numerous smartphones whose display is around 5”. If you have a compact and easy-to-use smartphone option, you will realize it measures around 4.7 to 5 inches. This is pretty common in older smartphone devices. If you’re holding an older smartphone, like an iPhone 5, its display is roughly around 5 inches. This size screen is compact, fits easily in one hand, and gives you a tangible reference for 5 inches.
2. Index Card
If you are a student or work in an admin, you know what index cards are and what they look like. They are frequently used for notes and studying, and surprisingly enough, they are typically 5” long. The most common size for index cards is 3 inches by 5 inches, with the longer side giving you a perfect measure of five inches. So if you want to visualize 5” without access to a ruler around you, using these index cards as a reference is always a great choice.
Also Read: How Long is 100 Feet (10 Things That Are 100 Feet (ft) Long)
3. Toothbrush
One of the most common household items around you that measures 5” is your toothbrush. This is especially true for the compact, travel-sized options. The full-sized toothbrush you likely use regularly is around 7-8 inches, but the portable ones are slightly smaller. Keeping a small travel toothbrush on hand can thus provide you with an accessible visual of what 5 inches looks like.
4. Ballpoint Pen
Everyone has a ballpoint pen or has seen one around at one point. The commonly available retractable type pens are typically five inches in length. Since pens are conveniently accessible and found in most households and offices, it is easier to get your hands on one to assess how long 5” is in real time. Next time you hold a standard pen in your hand, take note of its length, as it’s likely close to five inches long.
Also Read: How Long is 50 Feet? (10 Things That Are 50 Feet Long)
5. Spoon
Now, before you get confused, we are talking about a teaspoon. The standard teaspoon that people regularly use measures around 5” in length, so if you have a cutlery set at home, you can use a teaspoon as your standard marker to visualize how long 5” is. This is particularly useful when you’re in the kitchen and need a quick reference for measurement without reaching for a ruler, especially when you are baking something and need the measurements to be accurate.
6. Half of a Chopstick
Another very unique item that you can use to measure 5” without a ruler is a chopstick. Most wooden chopsticks at an authentic Asian restaurant measure 9-10 inches. So, taking the length of half of the chopstick will give you an estimate of how long 5 inches is. This is one of the easiest ways to estimate how big 5” is, especially if you are confused with the other options.
Also Read: How Long is 10 Inches? (10 Things That Are 10 Inch Long)
7. Small Plant Pot
Indoor plants have gained popularity; many small plant pots measure around five inches in height or diameter. These smaller pots are ideal for succulents, cacti, or herbs, providing homes with a stylish, green touch. If you have a plant pot of this size, you can use it as a quick measurement reference for five inches.
8. Post-it Note Pad
Many post-it note pads available in the market, especially at the stationary shops, have a width of 5”. A 5-inch sticky note can be an easy and accessible tool to help you visualize the length. Whether you’re in an office or at home, sticky notes are shared and practical for quick notes and reminders—and for gauging 5 inches.
Also Read: How Long is 4 Inches? A Look at 10 Everyday Objects
9. Portable Phone Charger
Portable chargers, aka power banks, are another popular option that you can use to visualize how much 5” actually is. Since they are designed to be portable, perfect for easy carrying, it is a lot easier for you to visualize how big they are. In most cases, the measure 5” across the length. So, if you have one on hand, you can use that to understand better how long 5” is.
10. Computer Mouse
A typical computer mouse, significantly smaller or compact versions, measures around five inches long. This applies particularly to mobile or travel mice, which are designed to be more compact. Using a computer mouse as a reference gives you an accurate idea of what five inches looks like while working or studying at your desk.
Also Read: How Long is 7 Inches? (10 Things That Are 7 Inches Long)
How to Estimate 5 Inches Without a Ruler?
If you have been curious about how much 5” is without a ruler, these everyday items should give you a brief and open idea. Whether you’re trying to figure out if a book will fit on your shelf or estimating space for items in a bag, having a mental picture of 5 inches can be incredibly handy. So next time you’re curious about a length, just remember this list of everyday items, and you’ll be able to easily gauge five inches!
