Have you ever needed to imagine how long 20 inches is — but had no idea what real-world object to compare it to?
Maybe you’re buying luggage, measuring a TV, or just curious.
Understanding real-world scales can save you from making wrong choices when shopping or planning projects.
In this article, we’ll explore 9 everyday things that are about 20 inches long, explain how big 20 inches actually is, and even offer buying advice for common 20-inch products.
Whether you’re just curious, shopping, or comparing products, this guide will have everything you need!
How Long is 20 Inches?
First, let’s get a sense of the size.
- 20 inches equals 50.8 centimeters.
- That’s about 1.67 feet.
- If you think in paper sizes: two standard A4 sheets placed end-to-end are slightly longer than 20 inches.
In daily life, 20 inches feels manageable — big enough for practical use, but small enough to handle easily.
Visual Comparison Tip:
Hold out your arm from your shoulder to just past your wrist — that’s roughly 20 inches for most adults!
9 Common Things That Are About 20 Inches Long
Now, let’s explore everyday objects around 20 inches:
1. 20-Inch TV Screen
A 20-inch TV screen is the perfect blend of portability and clarity, offering a compact yet immersive viewing experience for small spaces. Ideal for bedrooms, kitchens, dorm rooms, or even as a secondary screen, this size strikes a balance between convenience and performance. Despite its relatively modest size, modern 20-inch TVs deliver sharp HD or Full HD resolution, vibrant colors, and crisp image quality thanks to advancements in LED and LCD technology.
2. Carry-On Luggage
A 20-inch carry-on luggage is the perfect size for most airlines’ cabin baggage rules. It fits easily into overhead compartments, helping travelers avoid checked baggage fees and save time at the airport. Lightweight and durable, these suitcases often feature smooth spinner wheels, telescoping handles, and organized compartments for efficient packing.
Ideal for weekend trips or business travel, 20-inch carry-ons combine convenience with practical design. Keywords like “airline-approved carry-on” and “compact travel luggage” help users find the best options quickly.
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3. Skateboard Deck
A 20-inch skateboard deck offers a compact and nimble ride, ideal for younger riders or those who prefer quick, responsive turns. This size is great for street skating and cruising in tight spaces, making it easier to maneuver compared to longer boards.
Made from durable maple wood or composite materials, these decks combine strength with flexibility, supporting tricks and everyday rides. Popular among beginners and casual skaters, a 20-inch deck fits well for portability without sacrificing performance.
4. Medium-Sized Shelf
A 20-inch medium-sized shelf offers just the right balance between compact design and practical storage. Perfect for small rooms, offices, or kitchens, it provides a handy spot to display books, decor, or essentials without overwhelming your space.
Made from wood, metal, or composite materials, these shelves blend durability with aesthetic appeal. They fit easily into tight corners or walls, making organization effortless and stylish.
5. 20-Inch Monitor
A 20-inch monitor is ideal for home offices, students, and casual gamers who need a clear, reliable screen without taking up too much desk space. It offers sharp HD resolution and vibrant colors, perfect for browsing, video calls, and light multitasking.
These monitors often feature HDMI and USB ports, adjustable stands, and eye-care technologies to reduce strain during long hours.
6. Bass Guitar Neck
A 20-inch bass guitar neck offers a balanced length that enhances both playability and tonal control, especially on short-scale bass guitars. This size is favored by players seeking easier finger stretches and faster fret access without sacrificing deep, rich sound.
Crafted from quality woods like maple or mahogany, a 20-inch neck ensures durability and smooth feel, making it ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
7. Baby Bassinet
A 20-inch baby bassinet provides a snug and secure sleeping environment, perfectly sized for newborns during their first few months. Its compact design fits easily beside the parents’ bed, allowing for convenient nighttime care and bonding.
Made with breathable fabrics and sturdy frames, these bassinets prioritize baby safety and comfort.
8. Golf Putter
A 20-inch golf putter offers excellent control and accuracy for short-distance shots on the green. Its compact size helps golfers improve their stance and swing precision, making it a popular choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Crafted with durable materials and ergonomic grips, a 20-inch putter enhances confidence and consistency during every stroke.
9. Standard Toolbox
A 20-inch standard toolbox offers a perfect balance between capacity and portability, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. It provides enough space to store essential hand tools while remaining easy to carry and fit into workspaces or vehicles.
Built from durable materials like steel or heavy-duty plastic, these toolboxes keep your tools secure and organized, ready for any job.
Practical Applications: Why Knowing 20 Inches Matters
Understanding the scale of 20 inches is practical in many daily situations:
📺 Choosing a TV that fits your shelf
✈️ Picking the right carry-on for air travel
🖥️ Setting up a work or gaming desk
🚪 Finding shelves that fit your small spaces
👶 Selecting the right size bassinet for your bedroom
Even tiny mistakes in measurement can lead to big hassles — returning products, extra shipping costs, or simply cluttered rooms.
Knowing real-world 20-inch examples helps you plan better and shop smarter!
Buying Guide: Popular Products That Are 20 Inches Long
If you’re looking to buy something around 20 inches, here are top product categories to explore:
Top 20-Inch TVs
- LG 20-Inch HD Smart TV — compact and loaded with streaming apps
- Samsung 20-Inch LED TV — vivid colors and sharp resolution
Tip: Always check the stand size when buying small TVs!
Best 20-Inch Monitors for Work and Gaming
- Dell E2016HV Monitor — budget-friendly and office-ready
- HP Pavilion 20xi — vivid display for casual gamers
Tip: A 20-inch monitor pairs beautifully for dual monitor setups.
Ideal 20-Inch Carry-on Bags for Travelers
- Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside 20-Inch — durable and stylish
- Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight Carry-On — feather-light and spacious
Tip: Always measure including wheels and handles!
Comparison Guide: Choosing the Right 20-Inch Product
Here’s how you can decide between 20-inch products:
| Category | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-Inch TV | Small rooms, kitchens | Lightweight, affordable | May feel small in large rooms |
| 20-Inch Monitor | Office, gaming setups | Compact desk fit, crisp display | Limited screen real estate |
| 20-Inch Luggage | Travel, short trips | Easy to maneuver, cabin-friendly | Not for long vacations |
| 20-Inch Shelf | Storage, home decor | Fits tight spaces, easy to install | Limited load capacity |
Always match your purchase to your real needs — not just marketing promises!
Navigational Section: Where to Shop for 20-Inch Items
Ready to buy something 20 inches long? Here’s where you can shop:
- Amazon — massive variety and customer reviews
- Walmart — budget-friendly options for shelves and luggage
- Target — good home decor shelves
- Best Buy — tech products like monitors and TVs
Also, check local stores if you want to see the products firsthand!
FAQs About 20-Inch Measurements
Q1: Is a 20-inch TV too small for a bedroom?
No! For small bedrooms or kitchens, a 20-inch TV offers a cozy and enjoyable viewing experience.
Q2: Can a 20-inch carry-on bag fit under an airplane seat?
Yes, many 20-inch carry-ons fit under seats, especially soft-shell designs.
Q3: How big is a 20-inch monitor for gaming?
It’s a good starter size — compact yet immersive if you sit close.
Q4: How wide is a standard 20-inch shelf?
Width varies, but many are around 6–8 inches deep and 20 inches wide.
Q5: Is 20 inches good for a toolbox?
Absolutely! It’s compact yet holds all essential tools.
Conclusion
Understanding the size of 20 inches can make everyday decisions a lot easier — whether you’re shopping for a TV, monitor, luggage, or even setting up a DIY project.
Now, you know what 20 inches looks like, where you’ll encounter it in real life, and how to pick the best products that fit your needs!
✨ If you found this guide helpful, feel free to bookmark it, share it with friends, or check out our other helpful measurement guides!
Deven Kumar is the creator and lead writer of measurerealm.com, a site dedicated to helping readers understand everyday measurements and sizes through clear, relatable examples. With a knack for simplifying numbers and dimensions, Deven makes measurement concepts easy and interesting for everyone. Passionate about practical knowledge, Deven’s goal is to provide content that informs, educates, and adds value to daily life.