Imagine you’re working with three separate locations — on a map, a diagram, or in 3D space. You need to know how far apart they are.
You could draw lines, do the math, and measure angles. Or you could just use the Distance Between 3 Points Calculator.
This calculator helps you instantly determine the total, average, or individual distances between three points. It’s perfect for anyone dealing with geometry, spatial design, physics, or real-world positioning.
What Is the Distance Between 3 Points?
The “distance between 3 points” means the lengths of the three sides formed by connecting each pair of points.
In math or 3D modeling, it helps you:
-
Calculate the perimeter of a triangle
-
Measure average distance among points
-
Compare spatial separation between objects
-
Design models or graphics based on real-world scale
If you’re working in 2D or 3D, this gives you clarity and precision in a few clicks.
Formula and Variables
To calculate distances between three points (A, B, and C), you use the standard distance formula for each pair:
🧮 Distance = √[(x₂ − x₁)² + (y₂ − y₁)² + (z₂ − z₁)²]
Contents
Apply this three times — AB, BC, and CA — to get all distances.
📊 Variable Table
Variable | Meaning |
---|---|
x, y, z | Coordinates of each point |
Distance | Straight-line distance between two points |
A, B, C | Labels for each of the three points |
If you’re in 2D, just drop the z values and apply the same formula.
Example: Calculating Distance Between 3 Points
Let’s say:
-
Point A = (1, 2, 3)
-
Point B = (4, 6, 3)
-
Point C = (4, 2, 7)
Now use the formula:
-
AB = √[(4−1)² + (6−2)² + (3−3)²] = √[9 + 16 + 0] = √25 = 5
-
BC = √[(4−4)² + (2−6)² + (7−3)²] = √[0 + 16 + 16] = √32 ≈ 5.66
-
CA = √[(1−4)² + (2−2)² + (3−7)²] = √[9 + 0 + 16] = √25 = 5
So, the three distances are roughly 5, 5.66, and 5 units.
How to Use the Calculator
-
Input the x, y (and z) coordinates for all three points
-
Click calculate
-
View results – distances between A-B, B-C, and C-A, and optionally the total or average
It’s that simple — no manual squaring, adding, or square-rooting.
Where This Calculator Is Used
📐 Geometry and trigonometry – solving triangle and polygon problems
🧱 Architecture – mapping spatial layouts
🛰️ GPS systems – calculating multiple point distances
🎮 Game development – tracking 3D object positions
🚀 Physics and mechanics – analyzing spatial motion
🧪 Scientific simulations – modeling particle or object movement
Wherever three points meet, this tool adds clarity.
Tips for Accurate Results
✅ Always input each point’s full coordinates
✅ Use consistent units (e.g., all in meters or feet)
✅ Double-check sign (+/−) on coordinates
✅ If using 2D, leave z as 0 or blank
✅ Label your points if using for design or analysis
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mixing units (e.g., meters with centimeters)
❌ Entering wrong coordinates (flipping x and y)
❌ Using incorrect formulas in manual calculation
❌ Skipping 3D when z-differences matter
❌ Assuming equal spacing without checking
Accuracy starts with careful input.
FAQs:
1. What does this calculator actually measure?
It gives you the straight-line distance between each pair of three points.
2. Can I use this for both 2D and 3D?
Yes. Just skip the z-values for 2D or set them to 0.
3. What’s the benefit over manual calculation?
No room for math errors — the calculator handles every step instantly.
4. Is it useful in real-world mapping?
Absolutely. You can input coordinates from maps, blueprints, or GPS data.
5. Can I find the total or average distance?
Yes. Add the three distances for total or divide by 3 for average.
6. Does it calculate angles too?
No. This calculator focuses on distances. Use a triangle angle calculator for that.
Conclusion:
The Distance Between 3 Points Calculator is your shortcut to spatial clarity. Whether you’re designing, teaching, building, or analyzing — you can trust this tool to give you precise, reliable distances in 2D or 3D.
Save time, avoid errors, and measure smarter. Because when three points connect — the math should never be a mystery.