Reading Time Calculator

Paste your text to see how long it takes to read or say aloud.

Free · Runs in your browser · Your text is never uploaded

A paragraph of text with a counter showing the number of words and characters

How reading time is estimated

Reading time is the word count divided by a reading speed. This tool uses 238 words per minute, the average for adult silent reading of non-fiction according to a large 2019 meta-analysis. Speaking time uses 150 words per minute, typical for presentations and audiobooks.

Treat the numbers as a guide: technical writing, unfamiliar vocabulary and small screens slow readers down, while skimming speeds them up. For a speech, add time for pauses and slides.

Need more options? Open the full Word Counter.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to read 1,000 words?

About four minutes at 238 words per minute.

How many words is a 5-minute speech?

Around 750 words at a speaking pace of 150 words per minute.

What is the average reading speed?

Roughly 200–250 words per minute for adults reading silently.

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