Reading Time Calculator
Estimate how long it takes to read or speak your text. Paste in your content, adjust the words-per-minute slider, and get an instant estimate — perfect for blog posts, articles, and speeches.
50 (slow)
225 (avg)
700 (speed reader)
Results
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Speaking Time
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Typical Reading Speeds
| Children / ESL readers | 100–150 WPM |
| Average adult (silent) | 200–250 WPM |
| College students | 300 WPM |
| Speed reading | 500–700 WPM |
| Speaking (this tool) | 130 WPM |
| Podcast / narration | 150–160 WPM |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average reading speed?
Studies typically put the average adult silent reading speed at 200–250 words per minute. This tool defaults to 225 WPM. Speed varies widely based on text complexity, reader familiarity, and purpose (skimming vs. deep reading).
How is speaking time different from reading time?
Speaking time uses 130 WPM, a comfortable natural speaking pace for presentations and speeches. Reading silently is generally faster since you skip articulation. If you're preparing a podcast or narration, 150–160 WPM may be more accurate.
How long should a blog post be for SEO?
There's no single answer, but long-form content (1,500–2,500 words) often performs well for competitive topics. This equates to roughly 6–11 minutes at average reading speed. What matters more is depth, accuracy, and matching user intent.