1 Rem to Pt – Full Calculation Guide

1 rem equals 12 pt.

The conversion from rem to pt is based on the standard that 1 rem equals 16 pixels, and 1 pixel is 0.75 points. Multiplying these gives 12 points for 1 rem.

Conversion Tool

Conversion Formula

The formula for converting rem to pt is:

Points (pt) = rem × 12

This works because 1 rem is defined as 16 pixels in web design. Each pixel equals 0.75 points (pt), so multiplying 16 pixels by 0.75 pt gives 12 pt. This formula applies to any rem value to convert it to points.

Example calculation for 1 rem:

• 1 rem = 16 pixels
• 1 pixel = 0.75 pt
• Therefore, 1 rem = 16 × 0.75 pt = 12 pt

Conversion Example

• Convert 2 rem to pt:
  • 2 rem equals 2 × 16 pixels = 32 pixels
  • 32 pixels × 0.75 pt/pixel = 24 pt
  • Result: 2 rem = 24 pt
• Convert 0.5 rem to pt:
  • 0.5 rem equals 0.5 × 16 pixels = 8 pixels
  • 8 pixels × 0.75 pt/pixel = 6 pt
  • Result: 0.5 rem = 6 pt
• Convert 3.25 rem to pt:
  • 3.25 rem equals 3.25 × 16 pixels = 52 pixels
  • 52 pixels × 0.75 pt/pixel = 39 pt
  • Result: 3.25 rem = 39 pt
• Convert 4.75 rem to pt:
  • 4.75 rem equals 4.75 × 16 pixels = 76 pixels
  • 76 pixels × 0.75 pt/pixel = 57 pt
  • Result: 4.75 rem = 57 pt

Conversion Chart

The chart shows rem values from -24.0 through 26.0 and their corresponding pt conversions. To use it, find the rem value you want and read across to get the pt equivalent, which can help quick referencing without calculation.

Related Conversion Questions

• How many points equal 1 rem in typography?
• What is the point value of 1 rem in CSS units?
• Why does 1 rem convert to 12 pt in print measurements?
• Is 1 rem always the same as 12 pt across devices?
• How to convert 1 rem to points for graphic design?
• Does 1 rem equal 12 pt in all browsers?
• What formula do I use to change 1 rem into pt?

Conversion Definitions

rem: rem stands for “root em” and is a scalable unit in CSS that represents the font size of the root element. Unlike em units that depend on the parent, rem always relates to the root font size, making it consistent for responsive designs and scalable layouts.

pt: pt means “point,” a physical unit used in print and digital typography. One point equals 1/72 of an inch. It’s traditionally used for font sizes and spacing in printed media, and digital design tools adapt it to maintain consistent sizing across devices.

Conversion FAQs

Does the root font size affect rem to pt conversion?

Yes, rem is based on the root font size, which is most often 16 pixels by default in browsers. If the root font size changes, the pixel value of 1 rem changes too, affecting the point conversion. So, 1 rem equals 12 pt only when root font is 16px.

Why does 1 rem equal 12 pt and not 16 pt?

Because rem units relate to pixels and points convert differently. 1 rem is 16 pixels, and 1 pixel is 0.75 points. Multiplying 16 by 0.75 gives 12 points, not 16. So the difference comes from how pixels translate to points.

Can rem to pt conversion vary between browsers?

Browsers interpret rem based on root font size, so if that font size is consistent, conversion stays the same. However, user settings or zoom levels might alter root size, causing rem to pt conversions to change visually but not mathematically.

Is it better to use rem or pt for responsive design?

Rem units are better for responsiveness because they scale with the root font size, adjusting across devices and user preferences. Points are fixed physical units more suited for print or fixed layouts, less adaptable for flexible web design.

How do I convert rem to pt for print designs?

First, confirm the root font size in pixels, then multiply rem value by that pixel size. Convert pixels to points by multiplying by 0.75. For 1 rem with 16px root, 1 rem × 16 px × 0.75 = 12 pt. This ensures proper sizing when moving from screen to print.

Last Updated : 25 June, 2025

Sandeep Bhandari

Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.