Windows 11 doesn’t show your mouse’s DPI, because DPI is set inside the mouse, not by Windows. The quickest way to check it is the mouse maker’s software, such as Logitech G Hub or Logi Options+, Razer Synapse, Corsair iCUE or SteelSeries GG, which shows the exact DPI for each setting. For a basic mouse without software, look up the model’s specs, or measure it yourself with Paint.
Applies to: Windows 11 and Windows 10 with any USB or Bluetooth mouse.
What DPI means
DPI (dots per inch), also called CPI, is how many pixels the pointer moves when you move the mouse one inch. Higher DPI moves the pointer further for the same hand movement. Office mice are usually 800 to 1600 DPI; gaming mice let you switch between settings from 400 up to 25,000 or more.
Method 1: Use the mouse maker’s software
- Find the brand on the mouse, then install its app from the maker’s website or the Microsoft Store.
- Open the app and select your mouse.
- Look for DPI, Sensitivity or Pointer speed. The current value and any preset levels are shown, often with a color that matches the mouse’s DPI light.
The same app is where you change mouse DPI in Windows 11.
Method 2: Look up the specs
- Turn the mouse over and note the model name or number on the label.
- Search the maker’s website for that model and check the Specifications section for DPI or resolution.
Basic mice usually have one fixed DPI, which is the number listed. Mice with a DPI button cycle through several; the specs list the range.
Method 3: Measure it with Paint
- Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse > Additional mouse settings. On the Pointer Options tab, untick Enhance pointer precision and set the speed slider to the middle (6th of 11 notches), then select OK.
- Open Paint and zoom to 100%. Put a ruler on your desk.
- Move the pointer to the left edge of the canvas and note the X value at the bottom left of Paint.
- Move the mouse exactly one inch to the right and note the new X value.
- The difference is roughly your DPI. Repeat a few times and average the results.
Expect some error; this gives a ballpark figure, good enough to tell 800 from 1600. Turn Enhance pointer precision back on afterwards if you prefer it. To keep it off for good and test that acceleration is really gone, see how to disable mouse acceleration in Windows 11.
DPI vs Windows pointer speed
The pointer speed slider in Windows Settings multiplies whatever the mouse sends, so the same mouse can feel faster or slower without its DPI changing. Gamers usually keep Windows at the middle notch and adjust DPI on the mouse. The Windows setting itself is covered in changing mouse sensitivity.
Troubleshooting
The mouse software doesn’t detect my mouse
Plug it into a USB port directly instead of a hub, update the app, and restart the PC.
The DPI button changes nothing
Some mice store DPI levels in the software. Make sure on-board memory or the right profile is active in the maker’s app.
Frequently asked questions
What’s a good DPI for gaming?
Many players use 400 to 1600 DPI with low Windows sensitivity. It depends on screen resolution and personal preference.
Do online DPI analyzers work?
They use the same idea as the Paint test: you move the mouse a set distance and the page counts pixels. Results are approximate, and browser zoom or Windows display scaling can throw them off, so set both to 100% first.
Does display scaling change DPI?
No. Mouse DPI and display scaling (Settings > System > Display > Scale) are unrelated, although high scaling can make the pointer feel slower on high-resolution screens.
Can I change how the pointer looks?
Yes. The steps are in changing the cursor in Windows 11.
Related: how to check wireless mouse battery on Windows 11.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.