5 Minute Typing Test

How to play: click the text box and type the highlighted word, then press SPACE. The 5 minute timer starts with your first key. Press ESC to restart with new words.

This free 5 minute typing test measures how fast and how accurately you can type over a longer stretch. Short tests show your top speed, but five minutes shows the speed you can actually keep up, which is closer to how you type when writing emails, reports or chat messages.

The test uses random common English words, so every attempt is different. Your best 5 minute score is saved in your browser on this device.

How the 5 minute typing test works

  1. Click the text box. The first word is highlighted.
  2. Type the word and press SPACE. The 5:00 countdown starts on your first key.
  3. Correct words turn lime. Mistakes turn red and are crossed out.
  4. After 5 minutes you see your words per minute (WPM), accuracy and number of mistakes.

WPM is calculated from the characters of every correct word, including spaces, divided by 5 and then by 5 minutes. Mistyped words do not add to your speed, so accuracy matters as much as speed over a long test.

Why take a 5 minute typing test?

  • It shows your sustainable speed. Most people type a little slower over five minutes than over one, and that lower figure is the one you use every day.
  • It tests consistency. Errors tend to creep in as you tire. A long test shows whether your accuracy holds.
  • It is good practice for longer tests. Some typing assessments and courses use longer tests rather than a single minute, so it helps to be used to the pace.

What is a good 5 minute typing score?

As a guide, around 40 WPM is often quoted as an average for regular typists, 60 WPM is fast, and experienced touch typists often stay above 80 WPM. Over five minutes, try to keep your accuracy at 95% or higher. A score that is only a few WPM below your 1 minute score shows very good stamina.

How to type well for 5 minutes

  • Pace yourself. Start at about the speed you expect to finish at, not your top speed.
  • Breathe and relax. Tension in your shoulders and wrists builds up over a few minutes and slows you down.
  • Keep your eyes on the screen. Looking down at the keyboard breaks your rhythm and causes skipped words.
  • Do not chase lost words. If you make a mistake, carry on calmly. Rushing to catch up usually causes more errors.
  • Sit well. Keep your screen at eye level and your forearms roughly level with the keyboard.

Other test lengths

Frequently asked questions

Can I pause the test?

No. The timer runs until the end once you start. Press ESC to restart if you are interrupted.

Why does my accuracy drop near the end?

Tiredness and loss of focus are the usual reasons. Short breaks between tests and a relaxed posture help.

Are capitals and punctuation included?

No. All words are lower case with no punctuation, so the test measures typing speed and accuracy only.

Is my best score saved?

Yes, your best 5 minute score is saved in your browser on this device. Nothing is uploaded.