Reading Time Calculator
Estimate how long an article takes to read, or how long a script or speech takes to deliver, from its word count.
Your text stays in your browser.
About this tool
Reading time uses 200 words per minute and speaking time uses 130 words per minute. These are fixed rates for a typical pace, not measurements of any particular reader, so real times vary with the reader, the language, and how technical the text is. A word is a run of letters or digits in any script. An apostrophe or hyphen between letters keeps it together, so "don't" and "well-known" each count once.
How to use it
- Paste the full text of your article, script, or speech.
- Read the reading time and speaking time in minutes.
- Shorten or lengthen the text to hit a target duration.
Reading time (min) = words ÷ 200
Speaking time (min) = words ÷ 130
When to use it
- Showing "X min read" labels on articles
- Timing a presentation, podcast, or video script
- Checking a speech fits its slot
Examples
Blog post
A 1,500-word post takes about 1,500 ÷ 200 = 7.5 minutes to read.
Five-minute talk
At 130 words per minute, a 5-minute talk is about 650 words.
FAQ
Can I change the words-per-minute rate?
Not on this page. To use a different rate, divide the word count by your own words-per-minute figure.
Why 200 and 130 words per minute?
They are round figures for an average silent reading pace and a comfortable speaking pace. Treat the result as an estimate.
Does it account for images or code?
No. Only words in the text are counted. Add time yourself for figures, tables, or code blocks.