Words to minutes calculator
Convert a word count into speaking time and reading time — and back the other way. Adjust the words-per-minute rate to match your pace. Free and entirely in your browser; nothing is uploaded.
Tip: type in the Words field to get the time, or change the rate to match how fast you speak or read. The preset also sets the words-per-minute value, which you can then fine-tune.
Count the words in your text →
How many words is a speech of…?
Based on an average speaking rate of 130 words per minute. Slower, more deliberate delivery lands a little below these numbers; a brisk pace, a little above.
| Speech length | Approx. words (at 130 wpm) |
|---|---|
| 1 minute | ~130 words |
| 2 minutes | ~260 words |
| 3 minutes | ~390 words |
| 5 minutes | ~650 words |
| 10 minutes | ~1,300 words |
| 15 minutes | ~1,950 words |
| 20 minutes | ~2,600 words |
How long does it take to read…?
Based on average adult silent reading of about 200–240 words per minute. Use the calculator above with a reading preset for your exact figure.
| Word count | Reading time (at ~220 wpm) |
|---|---|
| 250 words | ~1 minute |
| 500 words | ~2 minutes |
| 750 words | ~3.5 minutes |
| 1,000 words | ~4.5 minutes |
| 2,000 words | ~9 minutes |
Speaking vs. reading rate
The two are quite different, which is why one word count gives two very different times. People speak more slowly than they read: a clear presentation is around 120–150 words per minute, while silent reading averages 200–240. That is why a script that takes four minutes to read aloud might only take two minutes to skim on the page. When you are writing to a time limit — a speech, a video script, a timed reading — set the calculator to the mode that matches how the words will actually be delivered.
Why your real number will vary
These are averages. Your actual pace depends on the material and the moment: technical terms, numbers and unfamiliar names slow you down; pauses for emphasis or audience reaction add time that no calculator can predict. The reliable method is to write a draft, read it aloud at your natural pace, and time it — then trim or expand toward your target. Paste the draft into the word counter to track the count as you edit, and check the reading-time figure it shows live.