Estimate How Long Your Speech Will Take Estimate how long it takes to speak any text aloud at various speeds.
Speaking Time Calculator
Estimate how long it takes to speak any text aloud at various speeds.
Enter Your Script
Paste your speech, presentation, or script text into the input area.
Set Speaking Speed
Choose your speaking pace — slow (110 WPM), average (130 WPM), or fast (160 WPM).
Review Your Speaking Duration
View the estimated speaking duration in minutes and seconds.
What Is Speaking Time Calculator?
A speaking time calculator estimates how long it takes to deliver a text as spoken word. Unlike reading (200+ WPM), speaking rates are significantly slower, typically ranging from 110-160 words per minute depending on the speaker's pace, audience, and context. This tool is essential for anyone preparing speeches, presentations, podcast scripts, video narrations, or any content meant to be spoken aloud. It helps you time your content to fit within allocated slots — whether it's a 5-minute lightning talk, a 20-minute conference presentation, or a 30-second elevator pitch. The calculator accounts for natural speaking cadence and can be adjusted for different delivery speeds.
Why Use Speaking Time Calculator?
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Accurately time speeches and presentations before delivery
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Ensure content fits within allocated time slots
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Adjustable speaking speed for different contexts
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Essential for podcast, video, and voiceover scripting
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Helps pace your delivery for optimal audience engagement
Common Use Cases
Conference Talks
Ensure your presentation fits within the allotted time slot, typically 15-45 minutes.
Podcast Episodes
Estimate episode length from your script to maintain consistent episode durations.
Video Narration
Time voiceover scripts to match video length for YouTube, courses, or corporate videos.
Wedding Speeches
Keep toasts and speeches within the ideal 3-5 minute range.
Elevator Pitches
Craft a pitch that fits within 30-60 seconds of speaking time.
Technical Guide
Speaking time is calculated by dividing total word count by words per minute (WPM). Average conversational speaking speed in English is 120-150 WPM. Professional presenters typically speak at 130-150 WPM, while auctioneers can reach 250+ WPM. The tool offers three presets: slow (110 WPM, suitable for complex or emotional content), average (130 WPM, standard presentation pace), and fast (160 WPM, for energetic or time-constrained delivery). Results are displayed in minutes and seconds. The calculation doesn't account for pauses, audience interaction, or slide transitions, so presenters should add 10-20% buffer time for a realistic estimate. The formula is straightforward: total_seconds = (word_count / wpm) * 60, then converted to minutes:seconds format.
Tips & Best Practices
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1Add 10-20% buffer time for pauses, transitions, and audience interaction
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2TED Talks average 130-150 WPM — aim for this range for clarity
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3Slow down to 100-110 WPM for emotional or complex content
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4Practice with a timer to calibrate your personal speaking speed
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5For bilingual presentations, non-native language sections take 20-30% longer
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📝 Text ToolsFrequently Asked Questions
Q What's the average speaking speed?
Q How does speaking speed differ from reading speed?
Q Is it necessary to account for pauses?
Q What speed should I use for a formal speech?
Q How many words is a 5-minute speech?
Q Does speaking speed vary by language?
About This Tool
Speaking Time Calculator is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.