Formula used
How to use this calculator
Select the calculation mode first. Choose a device preset or enter custom display data. Provide the viewing distance before calculating.
Use display width and height when available. Diagonal size and aspect ratio also work. Pixel pitch or PPI can replace dimensions.
Enter a pixel-group size for forward calculations. Enter a required angle for reverse calculations. Review both primary and secondary results.
Choose exact geometry for normal work. Use the approximation only for very small angles. Export the results when needed.
Example data
| Example | Resolution | Physical size | Distance | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desktop monitor | 1920 × 1080 | 531.36 × 298.89 mm | 600 mm | Office viewing |
| Smartphone | 2556 × 1179 | 147.5 × 71.6 mm | 350 mm | Handheld viewing |
| Television | 3840 × 2160 | 1217.6 × 684.9 mm | 2500 mm | Living-room viewing |
| VR per-eye panel | 2160 × 2160 | 70 × 70 mm | 45 mm | Head-mounted display |
Display comparison
| Display | Resolution | Dimensions | Distance | Pitch | PPI | PPD | Arcmin/pixel | Field of view |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Add calculated displays for side-by-side comparison. | ||||||||
Calculation history
| Date | Mode | Primary result | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| No saved calculations yet. | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is visual angle?
Visual angle describes how large an object appears. It depends on size and viewing distance. Larger angles occupy more vision.
What is pixel pitch?
Pixel pitch is one pixel's physical spacing. Smaller pitch usually means greater pixel density. It is commonly measured in millimetres.
What does pixels per degree mean?
Pixels per degree measures angular display density. Higher PPD gives finer angular detail. Viewing distance changes the measured value.
Should I use exact or small-angle calculations?
Use exact calculations for general work. Small-angle calculations are useful for tiny angles. Both become similar at long distances.
Can diagonal size determine width and height?
Yes, when the aspect ratio is known. The calculator separates the diagonal geometrically. Resolution does not determine physical size alone.
Can the calculator analyse non-square pixels?
Yes, enable the non-square pixel option. Enter separate horizontal and vertical pitches. The calculator reports direction-specific angular values.
Why do horizontal and vertical PPD differ?
Different pixel pitches create different angular sizes. Unequal physical scaling can also cause differences. Square pixels normally produce similar values.
What is the acuity threshold?
It is an angular comparison limit. One arcminute is a common reference. Actual eyesight varies between people.
Does a Retina result guarantee invisible pixels?
No, it only compares angular pixel size. Contrast and eyesight also matter. Treat the result as an estimate.
Can this calculator evaluate projectors and LED walls?
Yes, enter the projected physical dimensions. Add the pixel resolution and viewing distance. Large displays use the same geometry.
Can it analyse camera sensors?
Yes, enter sensor dimensions and resolution. Pixel pitch and density will be calculated. Visual angle still requires a viewing distance.