Reading Time Calculator
Estimate how long a piece of text takes to read, at several reading speeds.
How to use this tool
- Select your file, drag it onto the box above.
- Processing starts automatically — there is nothing to configure.
- Check the result panel, which shows the original size, the final size and the page count.
- Click Download to save it.
Average adult reading speed for English prose is around 238 words per minute — a figure from a 2019 meta-analysis of reading research. Technical material is slower, familiar material faster.
The specification
| Default speed | 238 wpm — average adult, non-fiction prose |
|---|---|
| Careful reading | 150 wpm |
| Skimming | 400 wpm |
| Speaking | 140 wpm |
| Adjustable | Set any speed you like |
How it works
This tool runs entirely in your browser. There is no server involved, which means nothing you type or upload is transmitted, stored, or logged — and there are no usage limits, because there is nothing for us to ration.
You can confirm it yourself: open your browser's developer tools, select the Network tab, and use the tool. No request is made.
Who uses this
Bloggers adding "5 min read" labels, speakers timing a script, and teachers estimating how long a set text will take.
Frequently asked questions
Where does 238 wpm come from?
A 2019 meta-analysis of reading-rate studies found roughly 238 words per minute for silent reading of non-fiction English prose. Fiction reads slightly faster, technical material slower.
Should I show reading time on articles?
It generally helps — readers use it to decide whether to start now or save for later. Round to the nearest minute rather than showing seconds.
Does it account for images and code?
No, it counts words only. Add roughly 10–12 seconds for each image a reader will actually study.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
No. Everything runs inside your browser on your own device. Your file is never transmitted and never stored by us. You can confirm this by opening your browser’s Network tab while you use the tool — you will see no upload request.
Is there a limit on how many files I can process?
No. There is no daily cap, no account, and no watermark. Because the work happens on your device rather than our servers, there is nothing for us to ration.
Is this tool really free?
Yes — no account, no trial, no watermark, and no cap on usage. It runs on your own device rather than our servers, so there is no cost for us to pass on.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes. The interface adapts to phone and tablet screens, and everything runs in the browser, so there is no app to install.
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Your files stay on your device. This tool runs entirely in your browser. No file is uploaded, transmitted, or stored. You can verify this by opening your browser's Network tab while using the tool.
Disclaimer. Specifications published by exam boards, governments and platforms change without notice. We verify and date every specification on this site, but you should always confirm against the official source before submitting an application. See our full disclaimer.