Pixel measurements do not need physical calibration
When you are checking an interface, screenshot or layout, pixel mode gives a direct CSS-pixel distance. Drag across the ruler and the live value follows the pointer.
Physical units are different
Centimetres and inches depend on how logical browser pixels map to the actual panel. That relationship changes between devices and can change after display scaling or zoom adjustments.
A compact tool for designers and testers
1Ruler runs in the browser without extensions. Fullscreen removes most visual clutter, while rotate mode lets you measure along a vertical edge.