Calculate how long your script will take to speak. Convert words to minutes instantly for podcasts, IVR, voiceovers, presentations, and more. Adjustable speaking speed with WPM presets.
Paste your script to calculate speaking duration
Add extra time for pauses, breaths, or music transitions
IVR Greetings: 130-150 WPM
Clear and understandable for all callers
Podcasts: 150-160 WPM
Engaging but easy to follow
Presentations: 120-150 WPM
Allows time for comprehension
Audiobooks: 150-170 WPM
Natural storytelling pace
News Anchors: 170-190 WPM
Fast but professional delivery
Auctioneers: 250+ WPM
Specialized rapid speech
Instant words to minutes conversion
Adjustable speaking speed (WPM)
5 speed presets (Slow to Fast)
Custom WPM input support
Pause time addition
Word and character count
Speed comparison table
Duration recommendations by use case
No signup or registration required
100% free unlimited calculations
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The easiest way to estimate script duration for any spoken content
Get speaking time estimates in real-time as you type or paste your script.
Choose from Slow (100 WPM) to Fast (180 WPM) or set custom speaking speed.
Designed for spoken content - podcasts, IVR, voiceovers, presentations.
See full text statistics alongside duration estimates.
Add extra time for pauses and transitions for accurate estimates.
Compare duration at different speaking speeds side-by-side.
Recommended words per minute (WPM) for different content types
| Content Type | WPM Range | Example/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Slow/Careful Speech | 100-120 | Complex topics, non-native audiences |
| Average Conversation | 120-150 | Normal talking, presentations |
| Audiobook Narration | 150-160 | Professional audiobooks |
| Podcasts | 140-180 | Conversational to energetic |
| YouTube Videos | 150-180 | Engaging, fast-paced content |
| IVR/Phone Menus | 100-130 | Clear, easy to follow |
| Commercials | 150-180 | Energetic, time-constrained |
| Fast Speech | 180-200+ | Disclaimers, auctioneers |
Quick reference for common word counts at average speaking speed (130 WPM)
100
words
~45 sec
250
words
~2 min
500
words
~4 min
750
words
~6 min
1000
words
~8 min
1500
words
~12 min
2000
words
~15 min
3000
words
~23 min
More free tools for content creators
Words per minute (WPM) is the standard measure of speaking speed. The average conversational speaking rate is 120-150 WPM. Professional speakers, podcasters, and voiceover artists typically adjust their speed based on content type and audience. Slower speeds (100-120 WPM) improve comprehension for complex topics, while faster speeds (150-180 WPM) maintain engagement for lighter content.
To calculate script duration: divide your total word count by your target WPM, then add 10-20% for natural pauses. For example, a 1000-word script at 130 WPM takes approximately 7.7 minutes of pure speaking time, plus 1-1.5 minutes for pauses, totaling 8.5-9 minutes. Always do a practice read-through for important recordings.
Different platforms have optimal content lengths. YouTube videos perform best at 7-15 minutes. Podcasts typically range from 20-60 minutes. IVR menus should keep options under 30 seconds each. Presentations usually have 10-20 minutes per major section. Use our calculator to ensure your script matches your target platform duration.
1) Write scripts at your natural speaking style, then time them. 2) Add visual/action cues that require pause time. 3) Factor in audience interaction time for live presentations. 4) For voiceovers, request client WPM preferences upfront. 5) Practice reading aloud to identify awkward phrasing. 6) Use our speed comparison feature to see duration at multiple speeds.
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