Buffers created using the ArcMap Buffer wizard are larger than expected

Description

Output from the ArcMap Buffer wizard may be slightly larger (up to 1.4%) than expected.

Cause

The Buffer Wizard uses four different settings to calculate buffers. The algorithm for 'Feature Set Optimized' contains an error that causes buffers at medium to large map scales to be slightly larger than expected.

For details on the options for the ArcMap Buffer wizard, see the related article below: "How does the ArcMap Buffer wizard calculate buffers, and how can I change the method that it uses?"

Solution or Workaround

• If the data frame corresponding to the data has an appropriate projection, use the 'Coordinate System of the data frame (output)' option.
• If the data is stored in an appropriate coordinate system, and has a coordinate system definition, use the 'Coordinate system of the Feature Class (input)' option.
• If you are buffering just a few features, use the 'Feature optimized' option. This option creates a temporary coordinate system for each feature being buffered. This option may take long if you buffer many features.