Brush tool sizing issue

[Document Geek]

I'm having an issue where the brush size (when painted onto the canvas) isn't matching the brush size that I've defined in the Brush panel. I've been using Photoshop for decades, and I thought "I'll just increase the brush hardness."  But the issue persists. I've tried changing brushes, but it doesn't matter which brush I choose, the pixels it lays down is always about 20% smaller than what I've specififed.

Granted, I don't have a ton of experience using brushes in a creative sense, but up until today, I've always been able to paint a circle in the size that I specify.  What am I missing? 

I am running PS 25.7.0 on Mac OS 13.6.6

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[c.pfaffenbichler · Accepted solution]

What is your System Settings > Accessibility > Display > Pointer setting? 

[Document Geek]

That was it! I had my pointer setting one tick higher than normal. Thank you so much!

[c.pfaffenbichler]

You’re welcome. 

This problem has come up a couple of times on the Forum before; I suppose it would be desirable for Photoshop to disregard the setting for certain tools but I am frankly not sure how easy that would be. 

You could post a Feature Request (mark it »Idea«) or a Bug Report (»Bug«) – if you feel more strongly about the issue. 

[Claude37244096ij2s]

I have the same problem in Photoshop 2025 version 26.0 on an imac 2023. 

I can't seem to access system settings - accessibility - display - pointer settings. Is that on the mac or in photoshop? Either way I can't find it. 

[Claude37244096ij2s]

Oh nevermind! I used my brain and I found it, it worked for me as well!