Scale Model Calculator - Free Online Scale Conversion Tool
Scale Model Calculator
Convert between scale model dimensions and real-world measurements. Essential for model builders, architects, and hobbyists.
Convert Model Size to Real Size
Visual Scale Comparison
📏 Common Object Sizes
Vehicles
- • Car: 4.5m (15ft)
- • Bus: 12m (40ft)
- • Train car: 25m (82ft)
Buildings
- • Story height: 3m (10ft)
- • Door: 2m (6.5ft)
- • House: 10m (33ft)
People
- • Adult: 1.8m (6ft)
- • Child: 1.2m (4ft)
- • Seated: 1.3m (4.3ft)
How to use this calculator
🏗️ How to Use This Calculator
- Choose between Model to Real, Real to Model, or Scale Comparison
- Enter your measurement and select the appropriate units
- Enter or select your scale ratio (e.g., 24 for 1:24 scale)
- View the converted dimensions in multiple units
- Use the visual comparison to understand relative sizes
📐 Understanding Scale Ratios
A scale ratio like 1:24 means that 1 unit on the model equals 24 units in real life.
Common Model Scales
- • 1:12 - Dollhouse, large models
- • 1:24 - Die-cast cars
- • 1:48 - Aircraft, O gauge trains
- • 1:72 - Military models
Model Train Scales
- • G Scale: 1:22.5
- • O Scale: 1:43.5 to 1:48
- • HO Scale: 1:87
- • N Scale: 1:160
🌟 Practical Examples
Example 1: Model Car
A real car is 4.5m long. At 1:24 scale, the model would be 187.5mm (7.4 inches) long.
Example 2: Model Train Layout
A real train station 100m long would be 1.15m at HO scale (1:87).
Example 3: Architectural Model
A 30m tall building at 1:200 scale would be 15cm tall in the model.
💡 Tips for Model Builders
- • Always verify the scale before purchasing models or accessories
- • Use consistent scales within a display or diorama
- • Remember that scales can vary by country (e.g., British vs American O scale)
- • Consider viewing distance when choosing a scale
- • Smaller scales allow for larger scenes in limited space
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Don't confuse scale ratio with percentage (1:100 is not 100%)
- • Remember that volume scales cubically (1:10 scale = 1:1000 volume)
- • Check if scale refers to length, area, or volume
- • Be aware of "scale creep" in miniature gaming
- • Verify manufacturer's actual dimensions vs stated scale
About this calculator
Convert between model scale and real-world dimensions. Perfect for architecture, model trains, cars, and miniatures.
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