11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long

Harry Zarek

Updated on:

11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long

When it comes to small measurements, 11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long is a length that’s easy to visualize yet often underestimated. In everyday life, many common objects are around this size, and understanding them can be a practical way to make visual estimations. From the pen cap in your pocket to the USB flash drive you use daily, knowing the dimensions of these familiar items helps you gain a better grasp of the scale.

11 Common Things 5 Centimeters

In this guide, we’ll explore 11 common things that are 5 centimeters long and provide insights into their size, how they are measured, and why understanding these lengths is useful. This article isn’t just about providing measurements but also offering practical comparisons and useful details about each item, backed by facts and examples.

1. Pen Cap

11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long Pen Cap


One of the most common objects that measures around 5 centimeters is the pen cap. Whether you’re using a basic ballpoint or a high-end fountain pen, the cap tends to hover around this length.

Why Pen Caps are Designed This Size

Manufacturers focus on functionality and portability when designing pen caps. A 5 cm pen cap provides enough length to protect the nib or point of the pen while still being small enough to clip onto your shirt pocket or notebook.

Most well-known pen brands, such as Bic and Pilot, produce caps that fall within this range. This measurement is deliberate, as it allows the pen to remain balanced when the cap is either attached or removed. Pilot G2 and Bic Cristal are perfect examples, each having caps close to 5 cm.

Bic Cristal Pen

In an experiment conducted by stationary enthusiasts, Bic Cristal pen caps consistently measured between 4.8 and 5.1 cm. This slight variation demonstrates how product design stays within a specific range to ensure functionality. The lightweight cap doesn’t just protect the pen’s tip; it also contributes to the pen’s overall portability.

2. Index Finger

11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long Index Finger

The first section of the human index finger is another example of an object that measures approximately 5 centimeters long. This measurement is consistent across most adults, though it can slightly vary based on gender and overall hand size.

How the Index Finger Is Used for Visual Estimation

Interestingly, the index finger is often used for quick, on-the-spot measurements. In practical settings, such as DIY home projects, using your index finger as a measurement tool allows you to estimate 5 cm with ease.

While the entire index finger averages around 7.5 to 8 cm, the first section (from the knuckle to the first joint) typically measures 5 cm, providing an easy visual benchmark.

Human Finger Proportions

Across different cultures, hands and fingers have been used as measurement tools for centuries. In fact, the width of a person’s palm or length of their fingers is often a reliable guide to make quick visual estimations without a ruler.

3. Smartwatch Screen

11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long Smartwatch Screen


If you’ve ever owned a smartwatch, you’ve likely held an object that’s close to 5 centimeters in length, especially in terms of the screen size of compact models like the Fitbit Charge or older versions of the Apple Watch.

Smartwatch Size Evolution

Smartwatch screens, especially those designed for fitness tracking, often fall within the 4-5 cm range. For example, the Fitbit Charge 4 has a screen length of about 5 cm, which provides just enough space for tracking health metrics without being bulky. Newer smartwatches with larger screens tend to measure between 6 and 7 cm, but many older models remain in the 5 cm range for compactness.

The Impact of Screen Size

A 5 cm screen is still functional for most purposes, allowing users to comfortably check notifications, track health stats, and navigate through apps without straining the eyes. Apple Watch Series 3, for instance, has a screen close to this measurement, which made it one of the most popular choices before the larger models took over the market.

ModelScreen Length (cm)
Fitbit Charge 45 cm
Apple Watch Series 35.1 cm
Garmin Forerunner 354.9 cm

4. Matchstick

11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long Matchstick


One of the most readily available objects that measures 5 centimeters is the standard matchstick. Whether you’re lighting a candle or starting a campfire, most matchsticks fall around this size.

Why Matchsticks are 5 Centimeters Long

A 5 cm matchstick offers just the right length for a firm grip without being too bulky. These dimensions make it easier to strike the match and control the flame. A matchstick shorter than 5 cm would be harder to handle, while a longer one would be unnecessary and potentially cumbersome.

Different types of matches exist—safety matches and strike-anywhere matches—but they generally adhere to similar dimensions for convenience.

Safety Standards

Interestingly, the length of a matchstick is also important for safety reasons. The additional length ensures the user’s fingers remain a safe distance from the flame.

CLICK HERE .if you need more informative things

5. Two Almonds

11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long Two Almonds


Here’s an unexpected but useful way to visualize 5 centimeters—place two almonds end-to-end. On average, a single almond measures around 2.5 cm, so combining two of them results in an approximate 5 cm length.

Size Variations in Almonds

Although almonds come in various shapes and sizes depending on the type (e.g., California almonds tend to be larger), the average remains close to 2.5 cm. This makes two almonds a surprisingly effective way to estimate 5 cm without a ruler.

Almond TypeAverage Length (cm)
California Almonds2.6 cm
Spanish Almonds2.4 cm
Organic Almonds2.5 cm

Practical Application

Next time you’re in the kitchen, grab a couple of almonds to measure small objects. You might be surprised how close the combined length of two almonds is to a precise 5 cm!

6. Standard Playing Card

11 Common Things That Are 5 Centimeters Long Standard Playing Card

A standard playing card is another everyday object with dimensions that align closely with 5 centimeters. The short edge of a typical playing card measures almost exactly 5 cm, while the longer side is usually around 8.8 cm.

Universal Standard for Card Size

Playing cards are standardized in terms of dimensions, whether you’re dealing with a classic deck of poker cards or those used in board games like Monopoly. This consistency makes them a useful reference point when measuring small objects.

Card TypeDimensions (cm)
Poker Card (Standard)8.8 cm x 5.7 cm
Tarot Card (Small)12 cm x 7 cm
Uno Card9.1 cm x 5.5 cm

Using the short side of a playing card, you can easily visualize 5 cm whenever needed.

7. Lip Balm Stick

Lip Balm Stick


The compact and convenient size of a lip balm stick makes it another great example of something that’s close to 5 centimeters in length. Popular brands like ChapStick and Burt’s Bees produce lip balms that measure around 5 cm in height.

Why Lip Balm is Designed for Portability

At 5 centimeters, these lip balms are perfectly portable, easily fitting into pockets or small bags. Their compact size ensures they’re convenient to carry around, while still providing enough product to last for multiple uses.

8. Squash Ball

Squash Ball


In the world of sports, a squash ball is another object that’s very close to 5 centimeters. Squash balls typically have a diameter of about 4-5 cm, making them one of the smallest sports balls used in a professional setting.

The Science Behind Squash Ball Size

The diameter of a squash ball is critical to its performance. As squash players know, the small size allows for high-speed play, making the game fast and intense. The slightly varying sizes of squash balls (between 4.8 and 5 cm) contribute to different levels of bounce, depending on the temperature and pressure applied.

9. USB Flash Drive

USB Flash Drive


Compact USB flash drives are designed for portability, and many models measure close to 5 centimeters in length. This small size makes them easy to carry and store while offering significant storage space.

Evolution of USB Flash Drive Design

Over time, USB flash drives have become smaller without sacrificing capacity. Early models were often larger, but modern designs prioritize compactness. Brands like SanDisk and Kingston offer drives with lengths close to 5 cm, ideal for users who need to transport data on the go.

USB ModelLength (cm)
SanDisk Ultra4.8 cm
Kingston DataTraveler5 cm

10. Air Pods Case

Air Pods Case


The Air Pods case, particularly for the 2nd Generation Air Pods, is another common item that measures close to 5 centimeters in height. Apple’s Air Pods case is designed for both protection and portability, making it easy to slip into a pocket or bag.

Size and Convenience

The Air Pods case combines sleek design with practicality, providing enough space to store and charge the Air Pods while remaining small enough to be unobtrusive. At just about 5 cm tall, it’s a great example of how tech products are becoming more compact.

11. Chess Piece

Chess Piece


In the world of board games, a pawn from a standard chess set typically measures around 5 centimeters in height. While chess pieces come in various styles and sizes, the pawn often adheres to a height of 4.8 to 5 cm.

Why Pawn Pieces Are This Size

The size of chess pieces, especially pawns, is standardized to ensure balance and ease of play. A 5 cm pawn fits perfectly within most chessboards, making it easy to move around while still being visually distinguishable from the other pieces.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve explored 11 common things that are 5 centimeters long, you should have a clearer idea of how small yet significant this measurement is. From a pen cap to a chess piece, these objects serve as practical tools for visualizing and estimating 5 centimeters in daily life. The next time you need a quick measurement, remember that many familiar items around you are approximately 11 common things 5 centimeters , making them handy measurement tools for small tasks.

Understanding the significance of 11 common things that are 5 centimeters long not only provides you with a useful measurement tool, but also enhances your awareness of the world around you. Every time you interact with these small yet essential objects, you’re reminded of how thoughtful design and practical dimensions like 5 centimeters contribute to their convenience and everyday utility.

Leave a Comment