The ultimate pixel-perfect desktop ruler for designers and developers. Measure anything on your screen with precision and a stunning glassmorphism interface
RULER OVERLAY - A PIXEL-PERFECT ON-SCREEN MEASUREMENT FOR MACOS
Measure anything on your screen with precision. Ruler Overlay is a lightweight macOS utility designed for designers, developers, and creators who need accurate on-screen measurements and alignment tools.
Place a ruler directly on top of any app to instantly measure spacing, layout proportions, and pixel distances through smooth controls and a clean, macOS-native interface.
KEY FEATURES
Multiple Measurement Modes
- Linear Mode: Standard absolute measurements.
- Adjustable Zero-Point: Shift the start of your measurement without resizing the ruler.
- EKE Mode: Set-square style for complex orthogonal alignment.
- Grid Mode: Adaptive spacing for layout rhythm and proportional alignment.
Two-Point Distance Measurement
- Place two points anywhere on the overlay to measure straight-line distances in pixels, units, or inches.
- Use keyboard shortcuts for precision: arrow keys nudge points, with modifiers for larger or finer steps.
Measurement Shortcuts & Hint Overlay
- Built-in hint overlay helps you master controls quickly.
- Start, cancel, or adjust measurements and navigate tools entirely via keyboard.
Smooth 360° Rotation
- Rotate the ruler freely with smooth gestures.
- Includes magnetic snapping at common angles for rapid, precise alignment.
Compact Mode
- A slimmer ruler profile with clearer tick marks.
- Features a minimal floating toolbar to reduce visual distraction.
Precision Calibration
- Calibrate using a known distance to match your display’s specific DPI.
- Enables accurate real-world measurements (e.g., inches).
DESIGNED FOR PRECISION
- Always-on-top overlay compatible with any application.
- Adjustable opacity with quick keyboard controls.
- Adaptive grid aligned to the zero point for consistent spacing.
- Vertical guide support in EKE mode for better orthogonal alignment.
- Glassmorphic macOS-native interface that blends into your workspace.
- Smart persistence: remembers size, position, rotation, and opacity.
Perfect for designers, developers, and anyone requiring exact on-screen dimensions.
Ratings & Reviews
This app hasn’t received enough ratings or reviews to display an overview.
- Added a copy button beside the distance readout while measuring so users can quickly copy the current measurement value.
- Tapping the rotation handle without dragging no longer moves the ruler.
- Smoother rotation drags with reduced lag.
Version 1.2.10
The developer, Lam Nhan, indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .
Data Not Linked to You
The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:
Usage Data
Diagnostics
Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More
Accessibility
The developer has not yet indicated which accessibility features this app supports. Learn More