Thread Pitch Calculator
Convert between threads per inch (TPI) and thread pitch in millimeters or inches. Enter any one and see all three, in your browser.
-
Show the math
Threads per inch (TPI) and pitch describe the same thing from opposite directions: TPI counts threads in one inch, while pitch is the distance between adjacent threads.
pitch (inch) = 1 ÷ TPI
pitch (mm) = 25.4 ÷ TPI
Imperial threads (UNC/UNF) are specified in TPI; metric threads (M-series) are specified directly in millimeters of pitch.
What this does
This calculator converts between threads per inch (TPI) and thread pitch in millimeters or inches. Enter any one value and see all three at once.
How to use it
- Enter TPI, or a pitch in mm or inches.
- Read the other two values instantly.
- Use TPI for imperial, pitch for metric threads.
How it works
Pitch is the distance between adjacent threads, so it is the reciprocal of threads per inch. Imperial threads (UNC/UNF) are specified in TPI, while metric (M-series) threads are specified directly as pitch in millimeters.
pitch (mm) = 25.4 ÷ TPI
Understanding your result
Pitch and threads-per-inch are reciprocals, so a finer thread has a smaller pitch and more threads per inch. Use this to identify a fastener you cannot measure directly, but confirm the thread standard too, since metric and imperial threads of similar pitch are not interchangeable.
Example
20 TPI is a pitch of 0.05 inch, or 1.27 mm. A 1.5 mm metric pitch is about 16.93 TPI.
Sources & methodology
Last updated .
Frequently asked questions
How do TPI and pitch relate?
Pitch is the distance between threads, so it is the reciprocal of threads per inch: pitch (inch) = 1 ÷ TPI, and pitch (mm) = 25.4 ÷ TPI.
Which do imperial and metric threads use?
Imperial threads (UNC/UNF) are specified in threads per inch, while metric (M-series) threads are specified directly as pitch in millimeters.
Is my data stored?
No. Everything is calculated locally in your browser.
Related tools
Inch to MM Converter
Convert between inches and millimeters using the exact 25.4 mm definition. Works both directions, entirely in your browser.
Decimal to Fraction Converter
Convert a decimal inch to the nearest machinist fraction (1/8 down to 1/128), reduced to lowest terms, with the exact-vs-approximate difference shown. Runs in your browser.
SFM to RPM Calculator
Convert cutting speed (SFM or SMM) to spindle RPM for a given tool diameter, or read the cutting speed from an RPM. Inch and metric, in your browser.
Feed Rate Calculator
Calculate machine feed rate (IPM or mm/min) from spindle RPM, number of teeth, and chip load, plus the feed per revolution. Inch and metric, in your browser.