Coordinates Converter

What is the Coordinates Converter?

The Coordinates Converter is a free online tool that instantly converts geographic coordinates between Decimal Degrees (DD), Degrees Minutes Seconds (DMS), and Degrees Decimal Minutes (DDM) formats. Whether you are working with GPS data, mapping applications, or surveying, this converter handles all common coordinate formats. For other conversion tools, try our Unit Converter and Angle Converter.

Understanding Coordinate Formats

Decimal Degrees (DD)

Decimal Degrees is the simplest format, representing latitude and longitude as decimal numbers. Latitude ranges from -90 to 90, and longitude ranges from -180 to 180. For example, 40.7128°N, -74.0060°W is the location of New York City.

Degrees Minutes Seconds (DMS)

DMS divides each degree into 60 minutes and each minute into 60 seconds. The format includes a direction indicator (N/S for latitude, E/W for longitude). Example: 40°42'46"N, 74°0'21"W.

Degrees Decimal Minutes (DDM)

DDM combines degrees with minutes expressed as a decimal number. It is commonly used in aviation charts and marine navigation. Example: 40°42.767'N, 74°0.350'W.

Conversion Formulas

DD to DMS:

Degrees = floor(abs(decimalDeg))
Minutes = floor((abs(decimalDeg) - degrees) × 60)
Seconds = (abs(decimalDeg) - degrees - minutes/60) × 3600
Direction = N/S for latitude, E/W for longitude (positive = N/E, negative = S/W)

DMS to DD: DD = degrees + minutes/60 + seconds/3600 (apply sign based on direction)

DD to DDM: DDM = degrees + decimalMinutes (where decimalMinutes = (abs(DD) - degrees) × 60)

How to Use This Converter

Select the input format from the dropdown: Decimal Degrees (DD), DMS, or DDM.
Enter your coordinates in the input fields for latitude and longitude.
View all converted formats instantly in the results panel.
Click "Open in Google Maps" to see the location on a map.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between latitude and longitude?

Latitude measures how far north or south a point is from the equator (0° to 90°), while longitude measures how far east or west a point is from the Prime Meridian (0° to 180°). Latitude lines run horizontally, and longitude lines run vertically.

Why are there different coordinate formats?

Different industries prefer different formats. Decimal Degrees is simple and used in most digital mapping APIs. DMS is traditional and used in surveying and nautical charts. DDM balances readability and precision and is common in aviation and marine GPS systems.

What is the precision of one second of latitude?

One second of latitude is approximately 30.7 meters (about 101 feet). One minute of latitude is approximately 1,852 meters (about 1 nautical mile). The precision decreases slightly for longitude as you move away from the equator.

Can I use this converter for any location on Earth?

Yes, this converter works for any valid geographic coordinates on Earth. Latitude must be between -90 and +90 degrees, and longitude between -180 and +180 degrees. The converter validates your inputs and shows an error message if the values are out of range.

How do I convert UTM coordinates?

UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) coordinates use a different coordinate system based on projected grid zones. To convert between geographic coordinates and UTM, you would need a specialized converter that applies transverse Mercator projection formulas. For standard latitude/longitude conversions between DD, DMS, and DDM, use this tool.

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