Convert Millicandelas to Candelas

Convert Millicandelas (mcd) to Candelas (cd) instantly and accurately.

Millicandelas (mcd)
Candelas (cd)

Conversion Formula

cd = mcd × 0.001

About Millicandelas

The millicandela (mcd) equals 10⁻³ cd. The most common unit in LED datasheets: a standard 3 mm through-hole LED has 5-500 mcd at 20 mA; a high-efficiency indicator LED 500-2 000 mcd; signal LEDs for visible-range indicators typically 10-200 mcd. The IEC standard range for low-current indicators. 1 mcd = 10⁻³ cd.

About Candelas

The candela (cd) is the SI base unit of luminous intensity. A standard wax candle emits ~1 cd; a 60 W incandescent bulb ~60 cd (assuming Lambertian emission); a 1 W white power LED ~100 cd peak in a 5° beam. Defined since 2019 by fixing K_cd = 683 lm/W at 540 THz. 1 cd = 1 lm/sr.

Quick Reference Table

Millicandelas (mcd)Candelas (cd)
1 mcd0.001 cd
2 mcd0.002 cd
5 mcd0.005 cd
10 mcd0.01 cd
25 mcd0.025 cd
50 mcd0.05 cd
100 mcd0.1 cd

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