Feet vs Metres
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
US construction (universal), UK personal height, aviation altitude, ceiling heights everywhere, sports field dimensions (US).
All other construction worldwide, all scientific work, vehicle and ship dimensions, athletic events (Olympic field events).
| Aspect | Feet | Metres |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Exactly 0.3048 m (international foot) | SI base unit |
| US Survey foot | 0.30480061 m (retired 2023) | — |
| UK use | Personal height, ceilings | Building works, distances, science |
| Aviation | Altitude (feet above sea level) | Sometimes used for short distances |
Frequently asked
What is 5 foot 10 in metres?
5 ft 10 in = 70 inches = 177.8 cm = 1.778 m, usually rounded to 1.78 m. The UK average male height is approximately 5'10" (178 cm); female average is 5'5" (164 cm). For heights: multiply total inches by 2.54 to get centimetres, then divide by 100 for metres.
Do planes fly at 30,000 feet or metres?
Civil aviation worldwide uses feet for altitude. 30,000 feet = 9,144 m. Russia and China use metres for altitude internally but switch to feet for international airspace.