When we think about measurements, 50 millimeters (mm) might not immediately sound familiar. However, 50 mm is the same as 5 centimeters (cm) or roughly 2 inches. This length is small enough to be handy in daily life but large enough to be noticeable when compared to everyday items.
To help you visualize it better, here are 13 common objects that are about 50 millimeters long.
13 Things That Are About 50 Millimeters (mm) Long
1. A Golf Ball
A standard golf ball has a diameter of about 42–43 mm, which is slightly smaller than 50 mm. But if you hold one in your hand, you’ll realize how close it is to 5 cm in length.
2. A Matchbox
A typical matchbox is about 50 mm long. This makes it a perfect reference for quickly visualizing what 50 millimeters looks like.
3. A Large Paperclip
While small paperclips measure around 28 mm, the larger versions are about 50 mm long, making them a neat everyday example.
4. A Business Card (Short Side)
Most business cards are 90 mm x 50 mm. The shorter side is exactly 50 mm, a standard size that’s used worldwide.
5. A Small Pocket Knife (Folded)
Compact pocket knives often measure around 50 mm when folded, small enough to fit easily in your pocket.
6. A Large Coin (Commemorative Coins)
Some commemorative coins and medallions are made with a 50 mm diameter, making them a great size comparison.
7. A Mini Ruler Segment
On a school ruler, 50 mm equals 5 cm, a small but useful section often marked clearly.
8. A Compact Flash Drive
Many USB flash drives are around 45–55 mm long, which makes them a great example of this measurement.
9. A Tube of Lip Balm
A standard lip balm tube measures about 50 mm in height, fitting neatly in your pocket or purse.
10. A Car Key
Car keys vary in length, but many fall within the 45–55 mm range, making them very close to 50 mm long.
11. A Lego Minifigure
A standard LEGO minifigure is about 40 mm tall, but with accessories like hats or helmets, it can easily measure 50 mm.
12. A Short Nail (Hardware)
Nails used for carpentry often come in lengths like 50 mm (2 inches), a standard size for small woodworking projects.
13. A Snack-Sized Chocolate Bar
Many mini chocolate bars (like fun-sized candy) measure 50 mm in length, making them both delicious and a useful size reference.
Final Thoughts
Understanding 50 millimeters (mm) becomes much easier when compared to everyday items. From a business card’s short side to a lip balm tube or a large paperclip, 50 mm (5 cm / 2 inches) is a practical length you encounter more often than you might think.
So next time someone mentions 50 mm, you’ll instantly have several real-world comparisons to visualize it.