Common Things That Are 5 Inches Long: Everyday Objects to Visualize 5 Inches
Have you ever been told to measure “about five inches” and realized you have no clue what that actually looks like? You’re not alone.
Five inches equals 12.7 centimeters or 127 millimeters — a modest distance, but one that’s surprisingly hard to picture without a ruler or measuring tape. Whether you’re hanging a frame, cutting fabric, or just curious about proportions, having a mental library of “5-inch examples” can be incredibly handy.
Let’s explore some common things that are around 5 inches long, so you’ll always have a quick visual reference at your fingertips.
Top Everyday Objects That Are About 5 Inches Long
Here are 16 everyday examples that measure close to five inches (give or take a few millimeters).
Each example includes an approximate size, why it works, and a fun or practical way to use it for quick measuring.
1. Standard Smartphone (Older Models)
Most smartphones from a few years ago (like the iPhone 6 or Google Pixel 2) measure about 5 inches in height.
💡 I sometimes line my phone up next to craft materials when I forget my ruler — instant size guide!
2. Toothbrush Handle
The handle of a typical adult toothbrush measures around 5 inches, excluding the bristles.
💡 Perfect for estimating small wall gaps — I’ve literally used my toothbrush to center a small picture frame.
3. Ballpoint Pen
A standard Bic pen (the clear hexagonal kind) is roughly 5.5 inches, just a touch longer than 5.
💡 If you imagine trimming a pen’s cap off, that’s your 5-inch mark.
4. Index Card (3×5 size)
The shorter side of a 3×5-inch index card is exactly 5 inches long.
💡 Handy reference if you’re a student or love jotting quick notes — one card equals 5 inches straight across!
5. Kitchen Sponge
Most rectangular dish sponges measure about 4.8 to 5 inches in length.
💡 Need to eyeball 5 inches? Grab your sponge from the sink!
6. Dollar Bill Folded in Half
A U.S. dollar bill is 6.14 inches long. Fold it roughly in half, and voilà — about 5 inches.
💡 A quick DIY measuring hack when you’re out shopping or crafting.
7. TV Remote Control (Small / Streaming Remotes)
A Roku or Fire TV remote is typically 4.8–5 inches long.
💡 I use my Fire TV remote to visualize short measurements — it’s practically a built-in measuring tool!
8. Table Knife (Handle Section)
The handle of a standard dinner knife measures around 5 inches.
💡 Lay one flat to visualize the distance between small wall anchors or drawer pulls.
9. Playing Cards (Two Stacked End-to-End)
A single playing card is 3.5 inches tall — line up about 1.5 cards, and you’ve got 5 inches.
💡 Quick and casino-themed measuring fun!
10. Small Notepad
Many pocket-sized notepads are about 5 inches tall.
💡 Perfect size to toss in a bag — and a sneaky way to estimate short distances.
11. Kitchen Knife Blade (Paring Knife)
A paring knife blade usually measures 4.5 to 5 inches.
💡 Need to visualize how deep to slice into something? That’s about your 5-inch mark.
12. Standard Comb
Most small hair combs or travel combs are around 5 inches long.
💡 I’ve used my comb to eyeball equal spacing when hanging small photo frames — surprisingly effective!
13. Writing Pencil (Sharpened and Used)
A brand-new pencil is about 7.5 inches, but after some use, a halfway-worn pencil is around 5 inches.
💡 Check your pencil jar — you probably have a 5-inch model in there already.
14. Gaming Console Controller (Handle Span)
The width between the grips of a PS5 or Xbox controller is close to 5 inches.
💡 Next time you’re gaming, hold your controller — that’s about 5 inches across!
15. Banana (Medium-Sized)
The average medium banana is about 5 to 6 inches long.
💡 It’s the most delicious measuring stick you’ll ever find.
16. Makeup Brush (Face Powder Brush)
Many standard makeup brushes are roughly 5 inches from handle to bristles.
💡 A beauty essential and a handy measurement guide — two for one!
Comparison Scale: How to Build 5 Inches Using Other Items
If you don’t have these exact objects around, here’s how to stack or combine smaller items to reach five inches:
5 standard paper clips (each ~1 inch)
2 AA batteries end-to-end (~5 inches total)
3 LEGO bricks stacked lengthwise
2 average house keys laid tip to tip
Half a standard 10-inch dinner plate’s diameter
These quick combos are perfect when you want to visualize or approximate 5 inches without measuring tools.
How to Visualize or Estimate 5 Inches Without a Ruler
Sometimes you’re in a pinch — literally. Here’s how to guesstimate 5 inches using your body or nearby items:
Use your hand: The distance from the tip of your thumb to your pinky (when spread out) is usually about 8–9 inches — so imagine just over half that.
Your palm width: Most adult palms are around 3–4 inches, so add a bit more for 5.
Dollar bill trick: As mentioned, fold a U.S. bill in half — about 5 inches exactly.
Credit card reference: A standard credit card is 3.37 inches long — one and a half cards side-by-side = about 5 inches.
Did you know? Five inches is roughly the height of a smartphone screen from corner to corner, which is why you’ll often see “5-inch display” in older phone specs.
Quick Facts / Cheat Sheet
| Measurement | Equivalent | Visual Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| 5 inches | 12.7 cm / 127 mm | About a toothbrush handle |
| Half of 10 inches | The length of a standard pen | |
| Two AA batteries | ≈ 5 inches total | |
| Folded dollar bill | ≈ 5 inches | |
| Average banana | ≈ 5–6 inches |
Save or screenshot this for a fast measuring cheat sheet!
FAQ: People Also Ask
What is 5 inches in centimeters and millimeters?
Five inches equals 12.7 centimeters or 127 millimeters.
What everyday items are exactly 5 inches long?
A 3×5 index card’s width, Roku remote, toothbrush handle, and kitchen sponge are all right around the 5-inch mark.
How can I measure 5 inches without a ruler?
Use a folded dollar bill, two AA batteries, or your palm span as quick references. You can also align common items like pens or credit cards end-to-end.
Are there variations in everyday objects’ lengths?
Yes — manufacturing differences, brand designs, and wear can cause slight variations (±0.25 inch). That’s why it’s best to say “approximately 5 inches” when using these items as visual guides.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what 5 inches looks like helps you estimate, craft, decorate, and DIY with more confidence.
Next time someone asks, “How long is 5 inches?” — you’ll be ready with examples right from your kitchen drawer, makeup bag, or desk. Whether it’s a toothbrush, a sponge, or your favorite streaming remote, you’ll see five inches instantly.
