TRACE WINDOWS BETA · USER GUIDE
How to measure cursor distance on Windows
Trace measures the distance your cursor travels across the screen. Pixels are the underlying measurement. Other units estimate screen distance using display DPI; they do not measure how far your mouse moves across your desk.
Start measuring cursor movement
- Install the Windows beta and enable tracking when you are ready.
- Move your cursor, then open the dashboard's Movement view. Choose a date range to review recorded activity.
- Use the Distance unit selector in the dashboard, or choose a preferred unit in Settings → Display & retention and save your settings.
- For a compact view, open Trace Bar and choose cursor distance among its hover details in Settings.
Which distance units are available?
| Unit | Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pixels | px | Recorded cursor travel |
| Millimeters, centimeters, meters, kilometers | mm, cm, m, km | Estimated screen distance |
| Inches, feet, yards, miles | in, ft, yd, mi | Estimated screen distance |
Does changing units change my history?
No. Trace preserves raw pixel-distance totals and converts them for display. Choosing centimeters or miles changes how the recorded distance is shown; it does not rewrite the original pixel totals.
Why is physical distance an estimate?
The conversion uses the display DPI available to Trace. Windows scaling and different monitor densities affect that estimate, particularly across mixed-display setups. The converted number should not be treated as a calibrated ruler measurement.
Mouse sensitivity, acceleration and hardware settings also mean that cursor travel and hand movement are different quantities. Use Trace to understand screen interaction, not to measure desk travel or make ergonomic or medical conclusions.
Why is the total not increasing?
Check that tracking is enabled, the collector is connected, and pause or incognito is not active. Confirm that the selected date range and monitor include the activity you want to see. For startup problems, see the installation and collector guide.
For the other charts and the records behind them, read heatmaps, local history and privacy.
Ready to try Trace?
All current features are free. The download page explains supported PCs and the unsigned beta's limitations.
Get the Windows betaMore help: all Trace guides.