Free Speech Time Calculator — Convert Words to Speaking Time

The FlowShorts Speech Time Calculator is a free tool that tells you how long your script takes to speak. Paste any text and instantly see the speaking duration at slow (120 WPM), normal (150 WPM), and fast (170 WPM) speeds. It also checks whether your script fits within platform time limits for YouTube Shorts (60 seconds), TikTok (60s, 3min, 10min), and Instagram Reels (90 seconds). Ideal for video creators, presenters, podcast hosts, and anyone using AI voiceover or text-to-speech.

How It Works

Paste or type your script into the text box. The calculator instantly counts words and characters, then shows the speaking time at three speeds: Slow (120 words per minute), Normal (150 WPM), and Fast (170 WPM). It also shows whether your script fits within YouTube Shorts (60s), TikTok (60s/3min/10min), and Instagram Reels (90s) time limits.

Speaking Speed Reference

Audiobooks are typically read at 150-160 WPM. Presentations average 120-140 WPM. Conversational speech is 130-150 WPM. News anchors speak at 150-170 WPM. AI text-to-speech engines like ElevenLabs default to approximately 150 WPM. Auctioneers can exceed 250 WPM. For short-form video, 140-160 WPM hits the sweet spot between clarity and engagement.

Platform Time Limits for Short-Form Video

YouTube Shorts allows up to 60 seconds (approximately 150 words at normal speed). TikTok supports 60 seconds, 3 minutes, and up to 10 minutes. Instagram Reels allows up to 90 seconds (approximately 225 words). Knowing these limits helps you write scripts that fit without rushing the delivery.