How accurate is an online compass?
Accuracy depends on your device's magnetometer, calibration, nearby metal or magnets, and browser support. Use it for general orientation, not safety-critical navigation or surveying.
Free Online Compass
An online compass uses your phone or tablet's orientation sensor to show which direction it is pointing. This free compass displays a live degree heading and cardinal direction without sending sensor data off your device.
Compass tool
0°
North (N)
Ready to check this device
How to use the online compass
- 1
Start the sensor
Open this page on a sensor-equipped phone or tablet and tap Start live compass.
- 2
Grant permission
Allow orientation access if your browser asks. The tool never needs your location.
- 3
Calibrate and read
Hold the device flat, move it in a figure eight if needed, then read the degree and direction.
Online compass FAQ
Why does the compass need permission?
Some mobile browsers protect orientation sensors behind a permission prompt. Permission lets this page read device heading; it does not grant GPS location access.
Why is the compass not moving?
The device may lack an orientation sensor, the browser may block sensor access, or permission may be off. Try HTTPS on a phone, check site permissions, and move the phone in a figure eight.
Does this compass use or store my location?
No. It reads orientation data in your browser and does not request, save, or transmit your GPS location or heading.
What do compass degrees mean?
North is 0 or 360 degrees, east is 90 degrees, south is 180 degrees, and west is 270 degrees. Intermediate degrees map to directions such as northeast and southwest.
Related tools
Turn an empty curb into your next opportunity
My Curb Spot helps food truck owners discover and book event spots and daily locations.
Explore My Curb Spot