Free Tool

Speech Time Calculator

See how long your script takes to say out loud. Paste your text for speaking time at slow, conversational, presentation, and fast paces — plus silent reading time.

Drop your file here

or

Supports .srt, .vtt, .txt files

How It Works

Paste your script

Add a speech, presentation, video script, or podcast outline. It stays in your browser.

See timing by pace

Get duration at slow, conversational, presentation, and fast speaking speeds at once.

Trim to fit

Edit until the time matches your slot — a 5-minute talk, a 60-second ad, or a 20-minute keynote.

How long will my speech take?

The honest answer is: it depends on how fast you talk. This calculator shows your script at several speaking speeds at once, so you can plan around the pace you actually use. A relaxed, clear delivery runs near 130 words per minute; a measured keynote sits around 150; a fast, energetic pace can hit 180 or more.

Speaking speeds, explained

  • Slow (100 wpm) — deliberate narration, audiobooks, accessibility-first delivery.
  • Conversational (130 wpm) — a natural, comfortable talking pace.
  • Presentation (150 wpm) — a clear stage or webinar pace.
  • Fast (180 wpm) — high-energy video, ads, and promos.

Made for speakers, presenters, and video creators

Public speakers use it to fit a strict time slot. YouTubers and short-form creators use it to script videos to an exact length. Podcasters estimate episode runtime before recording. Teachers and students rehearse presentations with confidence. Because the math is instant and private, you can edit and re-check as often as you like.

From script to finished audio

Once your script is timed, Sozai helps on the other side too: record or upload your talk and get a clean transcript with timestamps for show notes, captions, and repurposing. Plan the timing here, then let Sozai handle the words afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average speaking rate?
For most people, a natural speaking pace is about 130 words per minute. Formal presentations tend to be a little slower, around 150 words per minute, because of pauses and emphasis.
How many words is a 5-minute speech?
At a conversational 130 words per minute, a 5-minute speech is roughly 650 words. At a slower 100 words per minute it is about 500 words. Paste your draft to see the exact timing.
Does this account for pauses?
The estimate is based on continuous speaking. If your delivery includes long pauses, slides, or audience interaction, add a little buffer on top of the calculated time.
What pace should I use for a presentation?
Aim for about 150 words per minute. It is slow enough for an audience to follow and fast enough to keep energy up. The Presentation column shows your timing at this pace.
Is my script saved or uploaded?
No. The calculator runs entirely in your browser. Your script is never uploaded, stored, or shared.

Need Full Transcription?

Upload audio or paste a YouTube link and get a full AI transcript with speaker labels, timestamps, and summaries.

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