Skip to main content

Linear

Linear is a precision measurement tool for designers and developers who need to verify spacing, alignment, and layout consistency. Whether you're conducting design QA, reviewing implementations, or checking your own work, Linear helps you measure with confidence.

What Linear does​

Precise measurements: Measure pixel distances between any two points on screen. Verify that padding, margins, and spacing match your specifications.

Grid overlay: Display customizable grid overlays to check alignment. Verify elements align to your baseline grid or spacing system.

Ruler guides: Place horizontal and vertical guides anywhere on screen. Check alignment across distant elements.

Comparison mode: Compare two screens or states side by side. Identify differences in spacing and alignment between designs and implementations.

Screenshot capture: Capture annotated screenshots with measurements visible. Document findings for developers or design reviews.

Cross-platform

Linear works on macOS, Windows, and as a browser extension. Measurements work on any screen content—websites, applications, designs, or prototypes.

Common use cases​

Design QA​

Verify that implementations match design specifications:

  • Check padding and margins against design tokens
  • Verify element sizes
  • Confirm alignment to grid
  • Document discrepancies with screenshots

Self-review​

Check your own work before handoff:

  • Verify consistency in spacing
  • Check alignment across components
  • Ensure adherence to design system specifications

Design review​

Evaluate designs against systems and standards:

  • Measure against established spacing scales
  • Check for consistency across screens
  • Verify accessibility touch targets (44px minimum)

Development handoff​

Communicate specifications clearly:

  • Annotate designs with precise measurements
  • Document spacing tokens in use
  • Highlight alignment relationships
Linear measuring padding between elements
Measuring padding between interface elements
Grid overlay showing alignment
Grid overlay for alignment verification
Comparison mode showing differences
Comparison mode for QA reviews

Key features​

Measurement tool​

  • Click and drag to measure any distance
  • Displays value in pixels (configurable units)
  • Snapping to edges for precision
  • Multiple measurements visible simultaneously

Grid overlay​

  • Customizable grid size (8px, 12px, 16px, etc.)
  • Adjustable opacity
  • Toggle visibility with keyboard shortcut
  • Baseline grid option for typography

Guides​

  • Place unlimited horizontal and vertical guides
  • Snap elements to guides
  • Color-coded guides for organization
  • Clear all or selective removal

Annotations​

  • Add text annotations to measurements
  • Export annotated screenshots
  • Copy measurements to clipboard
  • Integration with common design tools

Getting started​

Ready to start using Linear? See the Getting Started guide for installation and first steps.

Getting Started

Install Linear and learn the basics in 5 minutes.

Learn more →

Features

Detailed overview of all Linear capabilities.

Learn more →

Keyboard Shortcuts

Speed up your workflow with keyboard commands.

Learn more →

FAQ

Common questions and troubleshooting.

Learn more →
What platforms does Linear support?

Linear is available as a desktop application for macOS and Windows, and as a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox. The desktop app can measure any screen content; the browser extension works within web pages.

Is Linear free?

Linear has a free tier with core measurement functionality. Advanced features like grid overlays, annotation export, and team features are available in paid plans.

Can Linear measure on retina/high-DPI displays?

Yes. Linear correctly handles pixel density differences and can display measurements in CSS pixels, physical pixels, or points depending on your preference.

Does Linear work with design tools like Figma?

Linear can measure anything on your screen, including Figma, Sketch, or any other design tool. For Figma specifically, the browser extension provides additional integration.

How do I report bugs or request features?

Email us at hello@theuxshop.com with the subject 'Linear feedback.' Include steps to reproduce any issues. We actively incorporate user feedback into development.

Related resources