Figure scale chart: 1/3 to 1/12 sizes in cm and inches

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A scale ratio compares a figure with the full standing height of the character it represents. It is not a fixed box or shelf height: two 1/6 scale figures can occupy very different spaces if one kneels on a low disc and the other stands on a rocky plinth with wings or a greatsword raised overhead.

Figure scale calculator: cm and inches

Enter the subject's full standing height, not the height of a model you already own. Divide by the scale denominator to estimate the character's nominal height.

Subject standing height

Height unitCentimetersInches

Figure scale1/121/101/81/71/61/51/4 (larger build)1/3 (larger build)

Calculate nominal height

Example: 180 cm ÷ 6 = 30.0 cm (11.8 inches), before the base and accessories.

This is a size estimate, not a fit check. Confirm overall height, width, depth, weight, and access clearance. CFS focuses on 1/8, 1/7, and 1/6 projects; 1/4 and larger builds get a separate scope review.

Start with the subject, then calculate the ratio

For a standing subject, divide the reference height by the scale denominator. A 180 cm character at 1/6 scale has a nominal standing height of 180 ÷ 6 = 30.0 cm (11.8 in), before the base and accessories. The same calculation works in inches when you divide the character's height in inches by the scale denominator.

These numbers are mathematical calculations, not fixed box sizes. Real figures vary because bases, footwear, hair volume, and raised props add height and width. A stylized character, portrait bust, or chibi figure is better specified by finished dimensions in cm or inches than by a fraction.

How bases, wings, and weapons add to nominal scale height

How big is each figure scale?

All heights below are for a standing character between 165 and 180 cm tall, measured without the base.

How big is a 1/8 scale figure?

About 20.6–22.5 cm (8.1–8.9 inches) at the head, or roughly 23–26 cm (9–10.2 inches) once mounted on a simple display base. 1/8 is one of the easiest collector scales to fit inside standard glass-door bookcases.

How big is a 1/7 scale figure?

About 23.6–25.7 cm (9.3–10.1 inches) for the character alone, and typically 26–31 cm (10.2–12.2 inches) with a base and hair flow. It sits between 1/8 and 1/6 and is the most popular scale for modern anime figures.

How big is a 1/6 scale figure?

About 27.5–30.0 cm (10.8–11.8 inches) at the head—roughly the height of an A4 or US letter sheet—and commonly 31–38 cm (12.2–15.0 inches) with a plinth or raised weapon.

How big is a 1/4 scale figure?

About 41.2–45.0 cm (16.2–17.7 inches) before the base. At 1/4 scale, resin weight, base diameter, and shelf depth (often 26–36 cm) become critical cabinet constraints.

How big is a 1/3 scale figure?

About 55.0–60.0 cm (21.7–23.6 inches) before the base. These are large centerpiece statues that usually require a dedicated pedestal or deep modular case.

How big is a 1/12 scale figure?

About 13.8–15.0 cm (5.4–5.9 inches). Many articulated action figure lines sold as "6-inch" figures are close to 1/12 scale.

How do I convert a figure scale to cm or inches?

Divide the character's full standing height by the scale denominator. For example, a 170 cm character at 1/7 scale is 170 ÷ 7 = 24.3 cm; divide 24.3 by 2.54 to get 9.6 inches. The calculator at the top of this guide computes both automatically.

Measure three dimensions, not just height

1. Height: measure from the shelf surface to the lowest obstruction, including lights and the underside of the shelf above. The proposed figure measurement should run from the bottom of the base to the highest accessory.
2. Width: allow for elbows, capes, weapons, and neighboring pieces. The base alone may not be the widest part.
3. Depth: check the usable space with the door closed. A tail or sword can extend behind the base.
4. Access: measure the cabinet opening and plan how your hands and the piece will pass through it. A piece that fits inside may not fit through the opening fully assembled.

Check the shelf manufacturer's load limit and the agreed finished weight. Do not infer compatibility from the cabinet's brand name or advertised outer dimensions. Leave handling clearance appropriate to the piece instead of filling the entire available space.

Use documented project dimensions carefully

Examples in the portfolio are shown without a published scale. A single height description does not establish a 1/6 ratio or give the full width and depth. Ask which measurement includes the base before comparing it with your shelf.

Use the display-fit planner to compare your measured space with the complete figure and a chosen clearance.

Send a display-space plan

• Usable space: height × width × depth, with units.
• Cabinet opening size and any fixed lights, doors, or obstructions.
• A photo of the display area with a ruler visible where practical.
• Your preferred pose, base, and accessories.
• Whether matching another figure's ratio or fitting the shelf matters more.

Before production, agree the proposed overall dimensions, what they include, and whether any parts detach. Do not assume a larger ratio automatically makes a better display: the silhouette, viewing distance, finish, and available space all affect the choice.