4 inches long is equivalent to 10.16 centimeters. This length is roughly the size of a standard popsicle stick and many other everyday objects. While it might seem unusual, there are numerous items around us that can serve as handy references when a measuring tape or ruler is not available.

Understanding these everyday items can help you make quick and accurate measurements. In this article, we will explore various tools and objects approximately 4 inches long, offering practical solutions for when precise measurement tools are out of reach.

How long is 4 Inches? 

4 inches is approximately 10.16 centimeters, which is about the length of a standard credit card or the width of a smartphone screen.

What do you mean by Four inches long?

When something is described as four inches long, the measurement from one end to the other is exactly 4 inches, which is about 10.16 centimeters. This length is equivalent to the size of a standard credit card or the height of a small sticky note.

How Long and Big is 4 Inches in Centimeters?

1 inch = 2.54 centimeters to convert inches to centimeters. 

Four (4) inches is equal to 4 × 2.54 = 10.16 centimeters.

12 Things Equal to 4 Inches

• Popsicle Stick
• Four Paperclips
• Four US Quarters
• Average Hand Width
• Baseballs
• Two Golf Tees
• Two Credit Cards
• Business Envelope
• Foam Sheets
• iPhone 5
• Erasers
• Soda Cans

Popsicle Stick

A fun and everyday item, a standard popsicle stick is about 4.5 inches long. This makes it a handy reference for estimating lengths around 4 inches. So, the next time you’re enjoying a popsicle, you can use the stick to visualize what 4 inches looks like.

Four Paperclips

Paper clips are a staple in offices and schools. Smaller paper clips are typically about 1 inch in length. Lining up four of these paper clips end to end will give you a height of approximately 4 inches, making them a convenient tool for quick measurements.

Four US Quarters

Each US quarter has a diameter of about 0.955 inches. If you line up four quarters in a straight row, you’ll get close to 4 inches in length, specifically about 3.82 inches. This makes quarters a handy reference for estimating 4 inches.

Average Hand Width

The average adult hand width, measured from the knuckle of the forefinger to the knuckle of the pinky finger, is around 4 inches. Although this measurement can vary depending on hand size, it offers a useful estimate for visualizing 4 inches.

Related: objects that are 9 inches long

Baseballs

A standard baseball has a diameter of about 2.86 to 2.94 inches. If you imagine one and a half baseballs placed side by side, you’ll get a length close to 4.5 inches, providing a rough estimate of 4 inches.

Two Golf Tees

Golf tees vary, but the old standard tee length is around 2.125 inches. By placing two such tees end to end, you can approximate a height of 4 inches, making them a useful reference on the golf course or anywhere else.

Two Credit Cards

Credit cards have a standard width of 2.125 inches. Placing two credit cards side by side along their width will give you a combined length of about 4.25 inches, slightly more than 4 inches but close enough for a rough estimate.

Related: objects that are 6 inches long

Business Envelope

Standard business envelopes typically measure a little over 4 inches in height. This makes them an easy and accessible reference for visualizing a 4-inch length.

Foam Sheets

Foam sheets, commonly used in DIY projects, often have a thickness of 4 inches. If you have a foam sheet handy, its thickness can be a direct reference for measuring 4 inches.

iPhone 5

The iPhone 5, released in 2012, has a screen with a diagonal length of exactly 4 inches. This makes it a perfect reference for visualizing what 4 inches looks like, especially if you have one of these classic phones.

Erasers

Standard erasers, especially those used in schools, are often around 2 inches long. Placing two erasers end to end gives a total length of approximately 4 inches, making them a practical tool for quick measurements.

Soda Cans

A typical 12-ounce soda can has a diameter of about 2.13 inches at the lid and a height of about 4.83 inches. While the height is slightly longer than 4 inches, the can’s diameter can help you estimate what 2 inches looks like, making it a handy reference.

Random Things that are 4 Inches Long

• Credit card: Roughly 4 inches long for standard cards.
• Sticky note pad: Common size is about 4 inches square.
• Drinking straw: Short straws are typically around 4 inches long.
• Smartphone screen: Older models often have screens around 4 inches diagonally.
• Toothbrush handle: Compact toothbrushes are usually about 4 inches long.
• Small paring knife: Blade length is often around 4 inches.
• Pocket comb: Typically around 4 inches long for travel use.
• USB cable: Short cables are often about 4 inches long.
• Light bulb: Standard light bulbs are about 4 inches tall.
• Marker pen: Small markers are usually around 4 inches in length.
• Lipstick tube: Typically around 4 inches tall.
• Keychain flashlight: Many are about 4 inches long for portability.
• Action figure: Certain figures are about 4 inches tall.
• Small wrench: Often around 4 inches long for light tasks.
• Index card: Standard size is 4 inches by 6 inches.

Accurate Measuring with a Few Pointers

The following are some crucial pointers for precise measurements:

• The correct measuring tool should be chosen for the task. Using the right instrument, whether a caliper, tape measure or ruler, is essential for accurate readings.
• Measure each relevant dimension. Make sure you measure the object entirely and accurately by taking note of all its sides and other features.
• Take a little time to go over your findings twice. Since precision is essential and even small errors can accumulate, every step must be precise.
• Maintaining consistency is crucial. Always measure using the same technique to ensure accuracy, especially when comparing different measurements.

Measurement of 4 Inches at Home

• Sticky Note
• Smartphone
• CD Case
• Post-It Note
• Remote Control

Measurement of 4 Inches while Traveling

• Smartphone
• Hotel Key Card
• Travel-sized Bottle
• Compact Mirror
• Credit Card

Final Thoughts

Knowing common items that measure 4 inches long can greatly simplify the process of estimating lengths when precise tools are not available. By using everyday objects like popsicle sticks, paper clips, or even the width of a credit card, you can effectively gauge measurements in a pinch.

These references offer practical solutions for quick estimations and can be particularly useful in various situations, from DIY projects to everyday tasks. Familiarizing yourself with these items ensures that you have accessible and reliable means for measuring 4 inches without needing specialized equipment.