a device for optically measuring distance , in particular a hand - held device , comprising an transmission unit which is provided with a light source for emitting optical measuring radiation towards a target object , and a capturing unit which is arranged at a distance from the optical axis of the transmission unit . the capturing unit comprises at least one optical detector for capturing optical radiation reflected by the target object . the detector of the capturing unit comprises a plurality of light - sensitive surfaces which are separated from each other and which are be activated separately . the invention also relates to a method for operating a device for optically measuring distance .