Coordinates Converter
Free online coordinates converter to convert latitude and longitude between decimal degrees (DD), degrees-minutes-seconds (DMS), and degrees-decimal minutes (DDM). Instant bidirectional conversion with cardinal direction support.
About This Calculator
The Coordinates Converter instantly converts latitude and longitude between the three most common geographic coordinate formats: Decimal Degrees (DD), Degrees-Minutes-Seconds (DMS), and Degrees-Decimal Minutes (DDM). Whether you are a surveyor, GIS analyst, navigator, hiker, or student, this free online tool helps you work with GPS coordinates, maps, and geospatial data effortlessly.
The conversion uses standard formulas: DD = Degrees + Minutes/60 + Seconds/3600 for DMS to DD, and the reverse process splits the decimal part. Cardinal directions (N/S for latitude, E/W for longitude) are handled automatically. This tool supports locations worldwide and works on any device.
Regional Notes
United States (US): USGS maps and NOAA charts commonly use DD format with negative values for western longitudes. Many GPS devices default to DMS format.
United Kingdom (UK): Ordnance Survey maps use DD format. The Prime Meridian at Greenwich (0° longitude) serves as the global reference for longitude measurements.
India (IN): Survey of India maps and Indian GPS systems use DD and DMS formats. India spans longitudes 68° E to 97° E and latitudes 8° N to 37° N.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert decimal degrees to DMS format?
To convert decimal degrees (DD) to degrees, minutes, seconds (DMS): take the integer part as degrees, multiply the decimal part by 60 to get minutes, then multiply the remaining decimal by 60 to get seconds. For example, 40.748417° becomes 40° 44' 54.3".
How do you convert DMS to decimal degrees?
To convert DMS to decimal degrees, use the formula: Decimal degrees = Degrees + Minutes/60 + Seconds/3600. For example, 40° 44' 54.3" N equals 40.748417°.
What are the different coordinate formats?
The three main coordinate formats are: DD (Decimal Degrees) like 40.748417°, DMS (Degrees, Minutes, Seconds) like 40° 44' 54.3", and DDM (Degrees, Decimal Minutes) like 40° 44.905'. All three represent the same location on Earth.
How do you indicate cardinal direction in coordinates?
For latitude: N (North) for positive values, S (South) for negative values. For longitude: E (East) for positive values, W (West) for negative values. In DD format, negative values are commonly used instead of letters (e.g., -73.985833 instead of 73.985833 W).
Is the Coordinates Converter free to use?
Yes, all calculators on Calculy are completely free to use with no hidden charges or registration required.
What is the difference between DMS and DDM formats?
DMS (Degrees, Minutes, Seconds) breaks coordinates into degrees, whole minutes, and seconds, while DDM (Degrees, Decimal Minutes) uses degrees and minutes with decimals. For example, 40° 44' 54.3" in DMS is equivalent to 40° 44.905' in DDM.