The millimeter, which is one-thousandth of a meter, is a tiny unit of measurement in the metric system. It’s commonly used to measure small objects or distances with precision.
How long is 5 millimeters? It’s tiny but surprisingly standard in everyday life. Think about everyday items—they might just be 5 mm thick! From paper stacks to rings, these examples will amaze you.
Five millimeters might seem tiny, but it’s a standard measurement. Many everyday items are around this thickness. For example, think of a pencil-top eraser or a stack of 50 sheets of paper. Even small hex nuts or two USB-C ports can be 5 mm thick. Let’s look at 12 interesting examples of this small but significant size!
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ToggleHow Long Is 5 Millimeters?
Five millimeters is a minimal length, often used for precise measurements. It equals half a centimeter or about the width of a pencil tip. This tiny size might be hard to notice in everyday life, but it’s essential in fields like engineering and crafts. Understanding how long 5 mm is helps visualize small details better.
In perspective, 5 mm is approximately 0.2 inches, much smaller than most coins. It’s almost the same as the diameter of a single raindrop. While small, it is significant in measurement for precision. This will help you in comparing the size of objects around you daily.
1. Screw
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screwss.webp)
A screw is a small metal fastener used for holding things together. The screw has twisted threads to keep the materials close and provide them with a secure grip. Unlike bolts, screws are provided with a pointed tip at the top, and hence they easily get screwed into surfaces. They can be used for wood, metal, or plastic works.
Screws vary in size to fit different tasks. The 5-millimeter screw is relatively standard in small, light-duty jobs such as the repairing of electronics or assembling furniture. The size of the screw is determined by the job that the screw will be applied to, so screws are diverse and necessary in the repairs and construction of daily activities.
2. Glass Panel
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Glass-Panel.webp)
Glass panels can be used in windows, doors, tables, or shelves. They let sunlight warm up a room and create that warm ambiance. They’re also often used in partitioning walls since they leave an open, modern appearance. They enhance the design of a house and an office at the same time.
Glass panels vary in thickness, but the common thickness is around 5 millimeters. Tempered glass is used instead of ordinary glass in places that require more strength and durability. Its impact resistance is much better than that of regular glass, and it is suitable for places with heavy traffic or outdoor applications.
3. Remote Button
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Remote-Button.webp)
Remote buttons are on every single electrical appliance or home device, including TVs, air conditioners, and gaming consoles. These remotes help individuals control different functions from afar. The average remote is about 8 inches in length and 2 inches in width, but its thickness can vary with the number of batteries it carries.
Typically, a remote control has buttons with a thickness of about 5 millimeters. This thickness allows for comfort in pressing them without them being too small or too large. The function of each button will differ; some may change the channel, while others may alter the volume. The buttons should be easy to press and use because of their thickness.
4. Three Nickels
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/3-Nickels.webp)
The United States Mint issues nickels, which are five cent coins made up of 25% nickel and 75% copper. A nickel has been used since 1866; it is one of the coins that plays a leading role in everyday transactions. The coin’s diameter is 21.21 mm, but the thickness is about 1.95 mm; although it is small enough, it is widely utilized and easy to carry because it is a familiar face in daily life.
If you stack three nickels, their combined thickness is about 5.85 millimeters, close to the 5 mm reference. This comparison helps visualize how small measurements can appear. The stacked nickels give us a clear, everyday example of the 5 mm thickness. Even small objects like coins offer insight into the measurements we use.
5. Four CDs
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/4-CDs.webp)
A CD, or compact disc, is a standard digital medium for keeping music and videos and storing other data. It measures 120 millimeters in diameter and 1.2 millimeters thick. CDs are still widely employed to meet all the necessities of playing music and as serious files. They manage significant data in small, transportable formats.
Four standard CDs stacked together will yield a combined thickness of roughly 5 millimeters. Well, that puts into perspective just how small 5 millimeters really is in terms of an everyday item—like those CDs. This example gives a very tangible sense of measure, which otherwise feels very abstract. It also emphasizes how using everyday objects is so practical when thinking about sizes.
See Also>> 12 Things and insects that are 1 Millimeter (mm) long
6. Pencil Top Eraser
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Pencil-Top-Eraser.webp)
A pencil-top eraser is a small rubber piece attached to the end of the pencil. It is helpful to remove pencil marks conveniently during writing or drawing. The thickness of most pencil top erasers is approximately 5 millimeters. That’s how small the pencil-top eraser could be without losing its potency as an eraser, ideal for quick fixes.
These erasers are often found in different colors and shapes but generally stay the same size. Its thickness helps the eraser remain securely on the pencil without slipping off. Despite being small, it removes mistakes without tearing the paper, making it useful for students and anyone who uses pencils regularly.
7. Standard Dice
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Standard-Dice.webp)
A standard dice is a small, cube-shaped object widely used in many popular board games. The sides of the die have dots or pips ranging from 1 to 6. On average, a die is about 5 millimeters thick, relatively small, but easy to hold and roll. It can fit into many games for smooth rolling.
Dice come in many sizes, but the standard size is the most commonly used. The thickness is ideal, making the die durable and resistant to wear. This size is also great for players to hold and roll easily. Whether playing a game of chance or strategy, the standard die is a fun and reliable tool.
8. Electric Cable
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Electric-Cable.webp)
An electric cable is a flexible wire that transmits electrical power or signals. The thickness of the cable can vary depending on its intended use. Cables used for smaller tasks are thin, whereas those used for big tasks are thick. Cables with a thickness of 5 mm are broadly used in more demanding applications like heavy machinery or systems.
An inner metal core, or a core of copper or aluminum, is provided to the electric cables that conduct electricity. The outer side of the cable gets a coat of insulation to protect the wires. A cable is strong and can bear high power demand. It is mainly used in both home wiring and industrial sectors.
9. Wedding Ring
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Wedding-Ring.webp)
A wedding ring reflects the true beauty of love between two people. Its earliest origins are in ancient Egypt, where they were initially made from naturally occurring materials such as hemp and reeds. Today, wedding rings can be constructed from valuable metals like gold, silver, and even platinum. Value can measure depth, and those rings are worth an amount for a bond.
Wedding rings also come in various sizes and thicknesses. The thickness is primarily 5 mm, providing the proper comfort and durability level. It was with the ancient Egyptians that the tradition began of placing a ring on the fourth finger of the left hand because those people believed this digit had within it a vein of love leading directly to the heart.
10. PVC Clear Hose
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/PVC-Clear-Hose.webp)
PVC clear hoses are the most practical and economical solution for many applications where it’s necessary to see what is inside the hose. They are very frequently used in farms, factories, and ships to transfer water, gas, or oil. This clear material allows checking the flow of liquids or gases to ensure everything is going to be okay.
The thickness of PVC clear hoses can vary, but 5 mm is standard for smaller operations. These hoses are flexible and durable, suitable for moving liquids over any distance, short or long. Therefore, the hose’s length depends on how far apart the source is from the collection point; this way, flexibility accommodates different setups.
11. DC Plug
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DC-Plug.webp)
A DC plug is a small device used to connect power to electrical equipment. It is commonly used for devices like laptops, radios, and cameras. The plug has two or more metal pins that fit into a matching socket, allowing electricity to flow and power the device safely.
DC plugs come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the device. The most common size is 5 mm, used for many household electronics. It’s designed to fit snugly and provide a reliable connection. With the correct plug, devices can work efficiently and without risk of damage.
12. Drill Bit
![](https://measuretastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Drill-Bit.webp)
Drill bits are tools for drilling holes inside wood, steel, plastic, and other channels. They are different sizes and shapes designed to perform specific tasks. These bits are most commonly made of sturdy materials like steel and aluminum. Such tools help in minor domestic repairs and other more extensive industry activities.
There are around five thick drill bits that are perfect for medium-sized holes. This thickness is widely used to perform normal day-to-day tasks; whether it be DIY or professional work, it fits in just fine. In case you are unsure about the specific size, just measure it using a ruler. This will help you know which size would work best and help you get the right bit for your projects.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, many everyday objects have a thickness of around 5 millimeters, which makes them easy to compare and measure. From coins to tools, understanding this size can be helpful in daily life. These items are daily, and knowing their thickness can benefit various tasks.
Knowing about things that are 5 millimeters thick also helps when you need to estimate sizes for different projects. Whether you’re working with screws, glass panels, or other materials, this simple measurement can guide your choices. It’s always good to know such details for more accurate work.