How Long is 14 Inches?
To put it plainly: 14 inches equals 1 foot and 2 inches—or about 35.56 centimeters if you’re thinking in metric measurements. It’s not a random number, either. This standard size hits that useful middle ground—long enough to matter but still compact. It helps to see how this unit of measurement shows up across various familiar items, especially when you’re visualizing things like screen sizes, toolboxes, or even lunch.
11 Familiar Objects Measuring Exactly 14 Inches (with Pictures)
1. 14″ Laptop Screen
A 14-inch laptop screen is one of the most recognizable items in this category. Measured diagonally (as screens always are), it’s a standard laptop size for students, professionals, and casual users alike. The diagonal measurement from bottom-left to top-right corner equals 14 inches exactly, even though the actual screen width might be closer to 12.2 inches.
This size balances portability and usability—a solid industry standard in tech gear. Many devices with this screen size are praised for their thoughtful design and compact size, especially for commuters and digital creatives.
2. Shoeboxes
While there’s some variation depending on shoe size and brand, many adult footwear shoeboxes measure close to 14 inches in length. For men’s sizes above 9 or women’s sizes above 10, the box length typically hovers between 13.5 and 14.1 inches. So, yes—next time you’re cleaning out your closet, those shoeboxes are actually pretty good visual aids for this measurement.
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3. Five Golf Tees
A standard golf tee is around 2.75 inches. Place five in a row, and you get about 13.75 inches—a near-perfect match for 14 inches. It’s not a perfect science (some tees are shorter), but with slight spacing, you’ve got a very close approximation of a 14-inch item. Not the most traditional measuring tool, sure—but surprisingly accurate.
4. Two Medium-sized Bananas
Bananas vary in size, but a medium banana typically measures about 7 to 7.5 inches. Put two end-to-end and you’re right around 14–15 inches. It’s a neat way to visualize inches in size when you’re standing in the kitchen, especially if you’re packing a lunch or slicing fruit for a smoothie. Bananas, by the way, are also a great source of vitamin B6 and a staple in everyday life.
5. Computer Keyboard
Most standard-size keyboards—especially compact or “tenkeyless” designs—are about 14 inches wide. Full-size versions with number pads go longer, but your average Bluetooth keyboard or laptop keyboard case typically lands at 13.8 to 14.2 inches. So if you’re sitting at a desk reading this, chances are there’s a 14-inch object right in front of you.
6. Standard Pillowcase
When flattened or folded, a standard pillowcase typically measures about 14 to 20 inches in width, depending on how it’s positioned. While its full standard dimensions are closer to 20 by 26 inches, laying one flat along the width often gives you a decent 14-inch visual reference. They also help protect pillows from wear and are some of the most underappreciated household items.
7. Wooden Ruler (14-Inch Version)
While 12-inch rulers are common, quilters and crafters often use 14-inch rulers for fabric and paper projects. They’re popular in sewing circles, thanks to their alignment with standardized size templates and accurate measurements. Great for craft supplies, these tools are often essential for measuring patterns and layouts in creative fields.
8. Subway Footlong Sandwich
Believe it or not, a Subway “footlong” sandwich can sometimes measure more than 12 inches—especially with extra bread or toppings. Independent tests (and a few viral lawsuits) revealed that some subs reached nearly 14 inches. So yes, that Subway Footlong Sandwich may technically be a 14-inch measurement—or at least close enough to count it among common objects.
9. Toolbox
A compact-size toolbox for home use usually measures between 13.5 and 14 inches in length. These are your go-to containers for screwdrivers, pliers, and duct tape. Built for convenience, they offer a standardized size that makes them easy to carry, store, or toss in a car trunk. Not just handy—they’re a very literal example of everyday items built with standard dimensions in mind.
10. Small Baking Dish
Most small to medium rectangular baking dishes (think Pyrex or ceramic casserole dishes) are around 14 inches in total length—often including the handles. This makes them ideal for family-sized portions or side dishes, and they fit neatly into most ovens and dishwashers. Next time you’re baking, you’re literally handling a 14-inch size reference.
11. Four Credit Cards
Line up four standard credit cards horizontally, and you’ll get about 13.5 inches. Each card is exactly 3.37 inches wide. Add a tiny bit of spacing between them or include a card reader, and you’re spot-on for the 14-inch mark. It’s a quick visual trick—and helpful in a pinch if you need a ruler but only have your wallet.
Final Thoughts
From laptops to bananas, common objects that measure around 14 inches are hiding in plain sight. These everyday items aren’t just useful—they’re great for understanding accurate measurements without ever touching a ruler. And hey, the next time someone asks you what 14 inches looks like, just point to your keyboard or hand them a shoebox. Because sometimes, in the absence of a measuring tape, all you need are a few familiar items and a good sense of humor.
Hey, size questions? Just ask SizeLoom.
