Count words online free with SavyTools’ word counter, which counts your words, characters, and sentences live as you type or paste. If you need a word counter with reading time for an essay, article, or cover letter that must fit a word limit, the tool also estimates how long the text takes to read — handy for speeches and presentations too — and nothing you type ever leaves your browser.
Everything runs in your browser. Your text is never sent to a server or stored anywhere.
How to Use
- Type or paste your text into the box at the top of this page.
- Watch the word, character, and sentence counts update live as you edit.
- Check the reading-time estimate to see how long your text takes to read aloud or silently.
- Edit your text until it fits the limit you are aiming for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it count words as I type?
Yes. The counts update live with every keystroke, so you always see the current total without pressing any button.
How is the reading time estimate worked out?
It is based on an average adult reading speed applied to your word count. It is an estimate, not an exact measurement, since everyone reads at a different pace.
Does it show reading time and speaking time?
Yes. Alongside the word and character counts you get a reading-time estimate, which also helps when you are preparing a speech or a presentation and need to know roughly how long it will run.
Tips
Decide your target before you start writing, so the live count guides you instead of surprising you at the end. If you are writing a speech, use the reading-time estimate to plan your timing, and leave room for pauses. Paste text from your document rather than retyping it, so the count reflects the exact version you will submit.
Also try our Character Counter tool when a platform limits you by characters rather than words.