Mouse Tracking Test

1. Choose a duration: 8, 12 or 20 seconds.
2. Start the test and keep your pointer on the moving target.
3. Stay smooth rather than correcting in jerks.
4. Read the average and maximum deviation, then try again.

Average deviation shows overall accuracy, and the maximum shows your worst moment. Compare scores using the same DPI and sensitivity, because changing either will change how your hand movements map to the screen.

It is a practice exercise, not a certified rating of your mouse.

The test reports an average deviation and a maximum deviation, both measured as the distance between your pointer and the moving target. Lower is better.

Suppose your first run gives an average of 18 px and a maximum of 55 px. After a few days of practice, a later run gives an average of 12 px and a maximum of 38 px. These numbers are only an illustration, but they show the pattern to look for: a lower average means you stay closer to the target overall, and a lower maximum means you recover faster from your worst moment.

If your average is low but the maximum is high, you are mostly smooth but occasionally lose the target, often at turns. If both are high, try lowering your speed or sensitivity until you can follow the target comfortably.

• Use your whole arm for large movements. Wrist-only tracking is harder to control over longer distances.
• Look slightly ahead. Following the path a little in front of the target helps you stay smooth.
• Do not correct in jerks. Small, continuous adjustments score better than sudden corrections.
• Compare equal durations. Only compare 8-second runs with other 8-second runs, and the same for the other lengths.
• Keep settings steady while you practise. If you change DPI or sensitivity, note it, because the same hand movement will map to different distances. See best DPI for gaming and what is eDPI.

This is a practice exercise, not a rating of your mouse. For target clicking, try the accuracy test, and for a steady-hand check, the jitter test.

How can I improve my tracking score?

Use your whole arm for large movements, keep a consistent grip and practise at a sensitivity you can control.

Does DPI change my score?

Indirectly. A different DPI changes how far the pointer moves per inch, which changes how you track. See best DPI for gaming.

Is this the same as in-game tracking?

It is similar but simpler, with a smooth path and no game physics.