Script Timer & Length Calculator
Paste your voice-over script to convert word count to estimated read time. Pick a language and pace, then check duration, 15-90 second slots, and a safety buffer. All calculations stay on your device.
Safety buffer applied when available.
Note: This calculator uses fixed words-per-minute values per language and pace. Timing assumptions reviewed July 12, 2026; this is a mechanical estimate of read time.
How this script timer and word-count calculator works
This script timer counts the words in your script, applies a fixed words-per-minute rate for the selected language and pace, then converts the result into an estimated read time. It also compares the timing against common 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90 second voice-over or ad slots.
- Use slow pace for instructional reads, disclaimers, and scripts with longer pauses.
- Use normal pace for most YouTube, course, product demo, and podcast voice-overs.
- Use fast pace only when the final recording is intentionally energetic or time-constrained.
How long is my script? Use the voice-over script calculator
Use this script length calculator when you need to turn a draft into a practical recording plan. Paste the copy to convert word count to read time, then compare the estimate with common voice-over slots. Pauses, music cues, quoted lines, and emphasis can all make a finished read longer.
- Paste the final draft, not an outline, for the most useful script-duration estimate.
- Choose a slower pace for teaching, legal copy, demonstrations, or scripts with deliberate pauses.
- Leave a safety buffer, then make one test recording before you commit to a final ad or video slot.
Once the timing fits, use the ElevenLabs character cost calculator to estimate credits for the same script.
Quick script timing targets
These planning budgets use the normal English pace of 150 words per minute and this calculator's 12% safety buffer. They leave room for breaths, music cues, product shots, and emphasis.
30-, 60-, and 90-second voice-over script examples
These fill-in-the-blank examples match the normal English planning budgets above: 66, 133, and 200 words after the 12% safety buffer. Replace the bracketed prompts, paste the result into the voice-over script calculator, and shorten it if your delivery needs longer pauses.
30-second product script · 66 words
Meet [product], the simpler way to [main benefit]. In just a few clicks, you can [primary action], [secondary action], and keep everything organized in one place. No complicated setup, no long learning curve—just a workflow built for [audience]. Start with [first step], see the result immediately, and adjust as you go. Try [product] today at [website], and make your next [task] easier with less effort.
Useful for a social ad, short product introduction, or pre-roll message.60-second explainer script · 133 words
If [common problem] keeps slowing you down, [product] gives you a clearer way forward. It helps [audience] [primary benefit] without [main frustration]. Begin by [first step]. Then use [feature one] to [result one], and [feature two] to [result two]. Everything stays organized, so you can spend less time managing the process and more time finishing the work. For example, when you need to [use case], you can [short workflow] and review the result before sharing it. You stay in control, with the flexibility to adjust [important setting] whenever the project changes. You do not need special training, and your team can follow the same repeatable steps from the very first project. Ready to make [task] simpler? Visit [website], try [product], and see how quickly you can move from [starting point] to [desired outcome].
Useful for a product demo, lesson introduction, or concise service overview.90-second narrated overview · 200 words
Every [audience] knows the moment: you need to [important task], but the usual process is slow, scattered, or difficult to repeat. [Product] brings the essential steps together in one clear workflow. Start by [first step], choose [important option], and let [feature one] help you [result one]. From there, use [feature two] to [result two], review the details, and make changes before anything is final. Imagine you are preparing [specific use case]. Instead of switching between several tools, you can [workflow step one], [workflow step two], and keep the latest version organized in one place. That means fewer handoffs, less duplicated work, and more time for the part that needs your judgment. [Product] is designed for [audience description], whether you are working on [use case one], [use case two], or [use case three]. You can begin with a small project, learn the workflow at your own pace, and expand when your needs grow. No advanced setup is required to test the core workflow. If you are ready to spend less time on [frustration] and more time achieving [desired outcome], visit [website]. Try [product] today, follow the guided first step, and see what a simpler process can do for your next project.
Useful for a tutorial opening, campaign overview, or longer product walkthrough.Script timing FAQ
How long is my script?
Paste the script into the calculator and choose the speaking pace. The result updates immediately with word count, estimated duration, and the closest ad slot.
How many words fit in a 60 second script?
At a normal English pace of 150 words per minute, 60 seconds is about 150 words before pauses. With this calculator's 12% safety buffer, plan for about 133 words. Use fewer words when the read needs longer pauses, emphasis, or music transitions.
Can I use this as a script timer?
Yes. It estimates time from the script text before recording. For final delivery, record a test read and compare it with the estimate.
What is a script time calculator?
A script time calculator converts the words in a draft into an estimated read time at a chosen speaking pace. Use it to plan a voice-over, video, lesson, podcast, or timed ad before recording.
Does the calculator send my script anywhere?
No. The word count and timing estimate run in your browser. Draft state is stored locally only if your browser allows local storage.
Disclosure: This tool contains an affiliate link to ElevenLabs. We may earn a commission if you use it, at no extra cost to you. Trademarks and product names belong to their respective owners.