Last Updated: October 2023
Optimize your sim racing experience with our precision iRacing FOV Calculator. Determine the mathematically correct Field of View based on your monitor size and distance to ensure accurate speed perception and spatial awareness on the track.
iRacing FOV Calculator
Correct iRacing FOV
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iracing fov calculator Formula
The standard formula to determine the correct horizontal Field of View (hFOV) for a single screen setup relies on simple trigonometry.
Note: The result of the arctan function is in radians and must be converted to degrees by multiplying by (180 / π).
Source Reference: Wikipedia – Field of View in Video Games
Variables
- Monitor Visible Width (W): The horizontal measurement of your screen’s display area, excluding the plastic bezel/frame.
- Distance to Screen (D): The physical measurement from the bridge of your nose (eye position) to the center of the monitor.
- FOV (Field of View): The calculated angle in degrees that should be input into the iRacing graphics settings.
Related Calculators
- Sim Racing FPS Calculator
- Triple Screen Angle Calculator
- Pixel Density (PPI) Calculator
- Aspect Ratio Calculator
What is iracing fov calculator?
The iracing fov calculator is an essential utility for sim racers looking to achieve a 1:1 scale ratio between the virtual world and the real world. In simulation racing, the Field of View (FOV) dictates how much of the track you see and, more importantly, how distances and speeds are perceived by your brain.
Setting an incorrect FOV results in a “fisheye” effect (if too high) or a “binocular” effect (if too low). An accurate calculation ensures that objects appear at the correct distance and that your sense of speed aligns with real-world physics, allowing for more consistent braking points and cornering precision.
How to Calculate iracing fov calculator (Example)
Here is a step-by-step example of how the calculation works for a typical setup:
- Measure Width: Suppose you have a 27-inch monitor with a visible width of 23.5 inches.
- Measure Distance: You sit with your eyes exactly 26 inches away from the screen.
- Divide Width by 2x Distance:
23.5 / (2 * 26) = 23.5 / 52 = 0.4519. - Calculate Arctan: Calculate the arctangent of 0.4519, which is roughly 0.424 radians.
- Multiply by 2: 0.424 * 2 = 0.848 radians.
- Convert to Degrees: 0.848 * (180 / π) ≈ 48.6 degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does the calculated FOV feel too zoomed in?
A mathematically correct FOV often feels restrictive (“zoomed in”) compared to standard arcade games. However, sticking with it will improve your depth perception and lap time consistency over time.
Does this calculator work for Triple Screens?
This specific calculation provides the base FOV per screen. iRacing handles triple screens differently; you typically input the dimensions directly into the sim, and it calculates the result. However, this tool helps verify the angle for the center monitor.
Should I measure in inches or centimeters?
The math works the same regardless of the unit, as long as you are consistent. If you measure width in centimeters, measure distance in centimeters. If you mix units, the result will be incorrect.
What if my monitor is curved?
For curved monitors, using the straight-line width (chord) is usually sufficient for a basic calculation, but iRacing has specific settings for “Curved Radius” which should be enabled in-game for maximum accuracy.