Speech time calculator
How long will your speech take?
Paste your script to estimate its spoken length at different paces. Use the result to plan a talk, video, or presentation, then rehearse to check the timing. No microphone needed.
Estimated speaking time
0 sec
0 words at 130 words per minute
Slow
0 sec
100 wpm
Average
0 sec
130 wpm
Fast
0 sec
160 wpm
Estimated speaking time. Adjust the pace after timing a rehearsal. Your text stays in this browser.
Words to speaking time, at a glance
Speaking time depends on how many words you have and how fast you say them. This calculator starts at 130 words per minute, so a 650-word script is estimated at five minutes before extra pauses. Paste your text above to estimate its length, and compare slow, average, and fast delivery side by side.
Handy reference points
- 1-minute talk ≈ 130 words
- 3-minute pitch ≈ 390 words
- 5-minute presentation ≈ 650 words
- 10-minute talk ≈ 1,300 words
- TED-style 18-minute talk ≈ 2,300 words
Tips for timing a talk
- Add time for pauses, audience reactions, and slide changes.
- Read aloud once and adjust the words-per-minute slider to match your real pace.
- Build in a buffer — most people speed up when nervous.
- Drafting by voice instead of typing? Dictate your script first, then paste it here.
Frequently asked questions
How many words is a 5-minute speech?
At the default setting of 130 words per minute, five minutes is 650 words. At 100 wpm it is 500 words; at 160 wpm it is 800. Leave time for pauses and audience reactions.
How many words per minute do people speak?
This calculator starts at 130 words per minute as an estimate. Read your own script aloud, time it, and adjust the slider to match. Your pace depends on the language, material, and pauses.
Does this need my microphone?
No. The speech time calculator is pure text math — it never asks for microphone access and nothing is uploaded.
Is reading time the same as speaking time?
No. Silent reading and spoken delivery use different paces. This tool estimates speaking time, including only the pace you enter; add time for pauses separately.
Is it free?
Yes — completely free, with no account and no limits.
More free tools
- Microphone test
- Mic test — record & playback
- Online voice recorder
- Speech to text
- Text to speech
- Speaking speed (WPM) test
- Background noise test
- Speaker & headphone test
See all free voice & audio tools, or learn what Openbrocadoes on your Mac.
Write your script by speaking it
Press ⌥ Space, speak, and keep writing in your Mac app. Openbroca turns your words into clear text. Start for free.
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