PX to EM Converter
Free online PX to EM converter. Convert pixels to EM units using a customizable parent font size. Enter a value in either field to convert both ways.
What is EM?
EM is a CSS unit relative to the font size of the parent element. Unlike REM (which is relative to the root), EM cascades, nested elements compound their parent's font size. Developers use EM for component-scoped sizing like button padding and spacing that should scale with the element's own font.
Formula
EM = PX ÷ parent font sizeWith a 16px parent: 32px ÷ 16 = 2em. Enter the actual parent font size of your element below for accurate results.
Calculator
1em = 16px at parent font size 16
Common Conversions (parent 16px)
| PX | EM |
|---|---|
| 8px | 0.5em |
| 12px | 0.75em |
| 14px | 0.875em |
| 16px | 1em |
| 24px | 1.5em |
| 32px | 2em |
Frequently Asked Questions
Divide the pixel value by the parent element's font size. For example, 32px with a 16px parent = 2em.
EM is relative to the parent element's font size, while REM is relative to the root (html) element's font size. EM can cascade and compound; REM is more predictable.
Use em for spacing and sizing that should scale relative to the component's own font size, such as padding and margins on buttons, or icon sizes within text.