Speaking Time Estimator
Estimate how long it takes to read your text aloud at a conversational pace. Based on 140 words per minute.
Speaking time
0s
at 140 words per minute
Words
0
Reading time
0s
silent, 225 wpm
Fast / news anchor
0s
170 wpm
Slow / deliberate
0s
110 wpm
About Speaking Time Estimator
The speaking time estimator predicts how long a script, speech, or narration will run when read aloud at a typical conversational pace of 140 words per minute. It's useful for podcasters, presenters, and video creators preparing material to a target duration.
When to use it
- Sizing a podcast script for an episode of a given length
- Checking that a conference talk fits a time slot
- Estimating audiobook recording time
- Planning narration for a video or explainer
- Comparing scripts for different speaking lengths
How it works
Words are counted and divided by 140 (conversational pace). The result is formatted as minutes and seconds. Adjust the estimate using the alternate paces shown for fast (170 wpm) and slow/deliberate (110 wpm) delivery.
Examples
1,000 words / 140 wpm ≈ 7.1 minutes
[1,000 words of script]
≈ 7m 9s
Frequently asked questions
- Why is speaking slower than reading?
- Producing speech takes physical effort and natural pauses, while silent reading is purely visual. Average conversational speech is 130–150 wpm; silent reading is 200–250 wpm.
- Does this account for pauses and ad-libbing?
- Only roughly — 140 wpm includes typical pauses. Heavy improvisation or dramatic delivery can stretch the estimate by 20% or more.
- What rate should I use for a fast presenter?
- TED-style brisk delivery runs around 160–180 wpm. News anchors hit 150–180 wpm. The 'Fast' card on this page uses 170 wpm.