Script Timer
Paste your script and estimate how long it will take to read aloud.
- Words
- 0
- Characters
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- Sentences
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Set speed by format
Estimated speaking time
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0 min 0 s · 0 seconds total
Paste your script above to estimate how long it takes to read aloud.
What is a script timer?
A script timer estimates how long a written script will take to read aloud. Instead of guessing, you paste your text, pick a reading speed, and instantly see the spoken duration in minutes and seconds. It is built for creators who need to fit a video, podcast segment, presentation or voiceover into a target length before they ever hit record.
How reading speed (WPM) works
WPM stands for words per minute: how many words you say in one minute of speech. The duration is calculated from your word count divided by your chosen speed. This tool offers four reference paces:
- Slow – 120 wpm: deliberate delivery, complex or technical content.
- Normal – 150 wpm: a clear, conversational pace (the default).
- Fast – 180 wpm: energetic, suited to short-form video.
- Very fast – 220 wpm: rapid delivery, rarely sustainable for long.
You can also fine-tune the speed anywhere between 80 and 300 wpm with the slider.
How to estimate speaking time
- Paste or write your script in the box above.
- Choose a reading speed with the slider, the quick paces, or a format preset.
- Read the estimated speaking time, shown in minutes and seconds.
- Copy the estimate or download it as a text file to keep with your project.
For example, a 1,000-word script at the normal pace of 150 wpm takes about 6 minutes and 40 seconds to read aloud.
Tips by format (YouTube, podcast, Reels, voiceover)
- YouTube video (150 wpm): a conversational on-camera pace. Add a little time for pauses, b-roll and on-screen demonstrations.
- Podcast (150 wpm): relaxed spoken delivery. Remember to budget extra time for intros, music, ad reads and unscripted conversation.
- TikTok / Reels (180 wpm): a fast, punchy pace that keeps short-form videos tight and within platform limits.
- Presentation (130 wpm): a slower, clearer pace so a live audience can follow along comfortably.
- Voiceover (150 wpm): a steady narration pace. Match it to the mood of your footage and the space you have for the audio.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How many words per minute do people speak?
Most people speak between 120 and 160 words per minute when reading a script aloud. A relaxed, clear pace sits around 150 words per minute, which is the default used here.
How long is a 1,000-word script?
At a normal pace of 150 words per minute, a 1,000-word script takes about 6 minutes and 40 seconds to read aloud. Faster delivery (180 wpm) brings it closer to 5 minutes 30 seconds.
Is this accurate enough for podcasts?
It gives a reliable planning estimate. Real podcast timing also depends on pauses, music, ad reads and conversation, so treat the result as a baseline and add time for anything beyond the spoken script.
How reliable is the estimate?
The estimate is based on word count and your chosen reading speed. It is great for planning, but the exact runtime will vary with your personal pace, pauses and emphasis.
Does my script leave my browser?
No. Everything is processed locally in your browser. Your script is never uploaded, stored on a server or sent anywhere.