What is mouse DPI?
DPI (dots per inch), also called CPI (counts per inch), is how many movement steps a mouse reports for every inch it travels. At 800 DPI, moving the mouse one inch sends 800 counts. Mice often don't match the number printed on the box or set in their software exactly, and some settings change it without telling you. A mouse DPI test shows what your mouse really sends.
How to use the DPI analyzer
- Get a real distance. Use a ruler or tape measure on your desk, or two marks a known distance apart. You can also open our online ruler on a phone, calibrate it, and lay the phone flat beside your mouse.
- Choose the distance you'll move: 1 or 2 inches, or 5 or 10 cm. Longer distances give more accurate results.
- Line up the front edge of the mouse with the start mark, then click the panel. The pointer is captured so it can't hit the edge of the screen.
- Move the mouse in a straight line until the same edge reaches the end mark, then click again.
- Repeat three to five times. The analyzer averages your runs; compare the result with the DPI your mouse is set to.
Getting an accurate reading
- Raw input: in Chrome and Edge the analyzer asks for raw movement, which skips your system's pointer speed and acceleration. The Measurement box tells you which method was used.
- Turn off acceleration if raw input isn't available: on Windows untick "Enhance pointer precision" and leave the pointer speed in the middle (6 of 11); on a Mac, results without raw input include macOS acceleration, so treat them as rough.
- Move steadily and keep the mouse flat. Lifting it or turning it adds error.
- Check the distance twice. Most odd results come from moving further or less than you meant.
Within about 5% of the advertised DPI is normal. A bigger gap can mean a different DPI profile is active (many gaming mice have a DPI button), or that the mouse's software changes the value.
Why DPI matters
DPI, together with your in-game or system sensitivity, decides how far the pointer moves when you move your hand. Knowing your real DPI lets you copy settings between mice and games, and compare "effective sensitivity" with other players. Put it to use with the aim trainer, or check the buttons and polling rate with the mouse test.