Online Compass

Real-time directional compass using your device's sensors

N
S
E
W
NE
NW
SE
SW
--°
Tap to enable

This tool requires a mobile device with orientation sensors.

QR code to open on phone
123compass.org

How to Use the Online Compass

This digital compass uses your device's built-in magnetometer and orientation sensors to show real-time directional heading:

  1. Open on mobile — This compass works best on smartphones and tablets that have orientation sensors.
  2. Tap "Enable Compass" — Click the button to activate. You may need to grant motion/compass permission.
  3. Hold your device flat — For the most accurate reading, hold your phone parallel to the ground.
  4. Rotate to find North — The red needle always points toward magnetic North. Rotate until it points straight up.
  5. Read your heading — The display shows degrees (0–360°) and cardinal direction (N, NE, E, etc.).

Tip: If the compass seems off, calibrate by moving your phone in a slow figure-8 pattern a few times. Keep away from magnets, metal cases, and speakers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Desktop computers and most laptops lack the magnetometer sensor needed to detect magnetic North. This tool requires a device with orientation sensors — typically smartphones and tablets. A QR code is shown so you can quickly open the compass on your phone.
Modern browsers (especially iOS) require explicit permission to access device orientation sensors for privacy. This only allows reading compass data — it doesn't access your location, camera, or any other data.
Try calibrating by moving your phone in a figure-8 pattern several times. Make sure you're away from magnetic interference like electronics, metal objects, or speakers. The compass shows magnetic North, which differs slightly from true North depending on your location.
Yes! Once the page is loaded, the compass works entirely offline using your device's built-in sensors. No internet connection is needed — it reads directly from your phone's hardware.
Most modern iPhones and Android phones with a magnetometer and motion sensors. iOS will prompt for access the first time. Some budget phones may lack a magnetometer — check your device specs if the compass doesn't respond.
Absolutely not. The compass runs entirely in your browser and reads sensor data locally. No heading data, location, or any other information is sent to any server. Your privacy is completely protected.