Reading Time Calculator, Estimate Read & Speak Time
How long will your text take to read, or to say out loud?
About this tool
Estimates how long text takes to read silently and to speak aloud. The default reading speed is 238 words per minute, the average for adults reading non-fiction; speaking defaults to a conversational 140 words per minute. Images add time too: the first image adds 12 seconds and each following one a second less, down to 3 seconds, the method popularised by Medium.
Bloggers add an "X min read" label to set expectations; speakers use the speaking time to fit a slot.
How to use
- 1. Paste your text.
- 2. Adjust the speeds and the number of images if you want.
- 3. Copy the ready-made "min read" label.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is it?
It uses research-based average speeds. Dense technical text reads slower; light stories read faster. Choose the speed that fits your audience.
Why do images add time?
Readers pause on images and captions. Adding a few seconds per image gives a more honest estimate for illustrated posts.
Is it free?
Yes.
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