Map Scale Calculator

Math

Calculate real distances from map measurements or determine map scales. Perfect for cartographers, geographers, hikers, and navigation enthusiasts.

Map Scale Calculation

Map Distance

Real Distance

Map Scale

Map Unit

Real Unit

Common Map Scales

Map Scale: A scale of 1:50,000 means 1 unit on the map represents 50,000 units in reality.

Large Scale: 1:25,000 or smaller ratios show more detail but cover less area.

Small Scale: 1:500,000 or larger ratios show less detail but cover more area.

Representative Fraction: The scale ratio can also be written as a fraction (1/50,000).

• Measure distance on map with a ruler

• Enter map distance and scale to find real distance

• Or enter real distance to find map distance

• Choose appropriate units for accuracy

• Use preset scales for common map types

City Maps: 1:1,000 to 1:10,000 for detailed navigation

Topographic Maps: 1:25,000 to 1:100,000 for hiking

Road Maps: 1:100,000 to 1:500,000 for driving

Nautical Charts: Various scales for marine navigation

Aviation Charts: Specialized scales for flight planning

Hiking: 2cm on 1:50,000 map = 1km real distance

City Navigation: 1cm on 1:10,000 map = 100m real distance

Road Trip: 1inch on 1:250,000 map ≈ 4 miles real distance