Understanding the PIDoctor tune score

The tune score sums up how good your tune really is — not by feel, but measurably. What matters, though, is not just the number but the sub-scores behind it.

How the score is composed

The overall score (0–100 with a grade) is fed by several dimensions: tracking and step response (the PID side) plus noise and filter effectiveness (the filter side). That separation is exactly what tells you which problem is yours.

What a good number is

Roughly: 80+ (grade A/B) is a solid, well-flyable tune; 60–80 has clear room; below 60 usually means a concrete problem. A high overall value with one red sub-score is more telling than the average alone.

Stability becomes measurable

Beyond the step response, PIDoctor estimates control-theory metrics like phase margin — how far your tune is from instability. That turns a feeling (feels sharp) into a solid statement (has margin left or not).

From score to change

The score isn't an end in itself: each weak sub-score points to concrete CLI commands and the matching guides. You don't just see that something is off, but what to do about it — and on the next log, whether it helped.

Related terms