Reading Time Calculator
Estimate how long your text takes to read or speak aloud.
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About this tool
"5 min read" labels exist because readers decide whether to commit based on time, not word count. This calculator converts your text into reading time and speaking time so you can label articles honestly, time a speech, or check whether a video script fits its slot.
You can adjust the words-per-minute rate: 200 wpm is a typical silent reading speed, while 130–150 wpm matches natural speech. Technical material reads slower, so treat the result as a baseline and add a buffer for dense content.
How to use
- Paste your article, script, or essay into the input box.
- Read the estimated reading time and speaking time.
- Adjust the words-per-minute slider to match your audience.
- Copy or download the text when you are finished.
Frequently asked questions
The default is 200 words per minute for silent reading and 130 for speaking aloud. You can change the rate to match your own speed or your audience.
If you are preparing a talk, narration, or video script, speaking time is what actually matters — people speak much slower than they read, and running over time is a common presentation mistake.
It is a baseline. Dense, technical, or unfamiliar material typically reads 20–40% slower than the average, so add a buffer when timing important content.