Need to measure the spacing or size of something on your screen? A Ruler for Windows puts a movable on-screen ruler on the desktop, with a resizable ruler with adjustable units, orientation, and appearance, so measurements can be made alongside other open work.
How do you measure screen elements?
When opened, A Ruler displays a horizontal ruler on the desktop. Move it over the area to measure, then adjust its length to span the element or gap. The default length is ten centimeters, and the ruler can be resized for shorter or longer measurements.
The ruler can also be rotated vertically, which suits checking the height of an interface component or the distance between items stacked on screen. Unit switching provides another way to match the measurement to the task.
Can you change the ruler's appearance?
A Ruler offers four built-in skins, and an image can be imported to make a custom skin. Opacity is adjustable, so the ruler can be made less opaque when underlying content needs to remain visible. The numbered scale and tick marks can be moved to the bottom edge.
Which keyboard controls are available?
The arrow keys nudge the ruler into position. Press M to place a line through its center, or G to display the golden ratio guide. The Advanced Options menu contains the shortcut list.
- Use the center line as a reference while aligning an element.
- Display the golden ratio when comparing proportions.
Pros
- Switch measurement units while checking on-screen dimensions
- Rotate and resize the ruler for different screen layouts
- Show a center line or golden-ratio guide with keyboard shortcuts
- Choose from four skins or create one from an image
Can A Ruler measure vertically?
Yes. Rotate the ruler from its horizontal position to measure vertical dimensions.
Can I use my own ruler design?
Yes. Import an image to create a custom skin, or choose one of the four built-in skins.
How do I show a center line or golden ratio guide?
Press M for a center line or G for the golden ratio guide.