VR IPD Calculator
Every headset asks for your IPD and almost nobody has actually measured their own. Grab a millimetre ruler, follow the steps below, and get the exact setting to use on your headset in about a minute. Nothing uploaded.
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-Understanding IPD (interpupillary distance) and VR headset comfort
What IPD is and why it matters for VR
Interpupillary distance (IPD) is the distance between your eyes' pupils, typically 50-80 mm in adults. VR headsets have two displays positioned at specific distances apart to create the illusion of depth. If the headset's optics are misaligned with your actual IPD, the virtual images will be offset relative to your eyes - causing eye strain, discomfort, and blurred vision even with perfect display resolution. This calculator helps you find your IPD and match it to your headset's available adjustment range. Different headsets offer different adjustment types: Quest 2 has three fixed preset positions (58, 63, 68 mm), Quest 3 and newer models offer continuous adjustment (53-75 mm), while Apple Vision Pro uses automatic eye-tracking to adjust optically.
How to measure your IPD and headset adjustment limits
IPD can be measured with a ruler and mirror (distance from center of one pupil to center of the other, in millimeters) or read from an eye prescription card (if available). Most people fall between 60-67 mm. If your measured IPD falls within your headset's adjustment range, set it to match exactly. If it is outside the range, set the headset to the closest available position - for Quest 2 users with IPD above 68 mm, this is the widest preset; below 58 mm, it is the closest. Compromise IPD settings may cause slight discomfort, but the effect is typically less severe than using the wrong setting entirely.
FAQ
Why does my VR headset make me dizzy or nauseous?
Incorrect IPD is a common cause of VR discomfort. Other factors include low frame rate, high motion-to-photon latency, and vergence-accommodation conflict. Start by ensuring your IPD setting matches your measured distance. If dizziness persists, check that the headset is not too loose (it should fit snugly), that the refresh rate is at least 90 Hz, and that you take breaks every 20-30 minutes.
Can I wear glasses inside a VR headset?
Yes. Many headsets accommodate glasses with a max width of about 142 mm and max lens height of about 50 mm. Some headsets have prescription lens inserts available, or you can use contacts while in VR. Check your headset's specifications for compatibility, and measure your glasses width to ensure they fit without obstruction.
Does IPD change with age or growth?
IPD is largely fixed by early childhood and typically does not change significantly in adulthood. Children may have different IPDs than adults - if you are buying a VR headset for a child, measure their specific IPD rather than assuming it matches an adult's. In rare cases, IPD can shift slightly after eye surgery or trauma, but this is uncommon.