Optimize your simulation immersion and lap times by calculating the mathematically correct Field of View (FOV) for your rig setup.
Sim Racing FOV Calculator
FOV Calculator Sim Racing Formula
The mathematical formula used to determine the correct horizontal Field of View (hFOV) based on your physical setup ensures a 1:1 scale representation of the virtual world.
Source: Wikipedia – Field of View in Video Games
Variables
- Screen Width (W): The physical horizontal width of your monitor’s display area (excluding bezels). This is derived from the diagonal size and aspect ratio.
- Distance (D): The measurement from the bridge of your nose (your eyes) to the center of the screen.
- ArcTan: An inverse trigonometric function used to calculate the angle based on the triangle formed by your eyes and the screen edges.
Related Calculators
- Sim Racing Triple Screen Angle Calculator
- Pixels Per Degree (PPD) Calculator
- Reaction Time Tester for Racing
- FPS to Hz Converter
What is Sim Racing FOV?
Field of View (FOV) in sim racing refers to the extent of the observable game world that is seen on your display at any given moment. Setting the “Mathematically Correct” FOV is crucial because it aligns the virtual camera’s perspective with your physical position relative to the monitor.
When your FOV is correct, your brain perceives speed and distance accurately. If the FOV is too high (fisheye effect), corners look further away, causing you to brake too late. If it is too low (binocular effect), the sense of speed is exaggerated, making it difficult to hit apexes smoothly.
How to Calculate FOV (Example)
Let’s calculate the FOV for a standard setup:
- Identify Monitor: A 27-inch monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio.
- Calculate Width: A 27″ 16:9 screen has a width of approximately 23.5 inches (59.7 cm).
- Measure Distance: You sit 60 cm away from the screen.
- Apply Formula: Calculate the angle.
Half Width = 29.85 cm.
Angle = arctan(29.85 / 60) ≈ 26.4 degrees. - Double It: Total hFOV = 26.4 × 2 = 52.8 degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does this calculator work for Triple Screens?
This calculator provides the hFOV for the center monitor. For triple screens, you use this value for each screen and then calculate the side monitor angle separately.
Should I always use the mathematically correct FOV?
Ideally, yes. However, if you have a very small monitor and sit far away, the correct FOV might be like looking through a keyhole. in that case, some racers add 5-10 degrees for better visibility, trading off spatial accuracy.
How do I measure the distance accurately?
Sit in your racing position. Have a friend measure from your eyes to the center of the panel. Ensure you are looking straight ahead.
Why is my calculated FOV so low?
Most default game settings use high FOVs (like 90+ degrees) to look fast. Real 1:1 FOV often feels “zoomed in” initially, but it is physically accurate to your window into the virtual world.