Average typing speed
The average typing speed for an adult is about 40 words per minute (WPM). Most people land between 38 and 45 WPM. Professional typists often reach 65 to 80, and a few go far beyond that.
Typing speed by level
| Level | WPM | What it feels like |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | under 30 | Looking at the keys, finding letters one by one |
| Average | 30 to 45 | Comfortable for email, chat and homework |
| Good | 45 to 65 | Meets most job requirements for typing |
| Fast | 65 to 90 | Touch typing with few glances at the keyboard |
| Very fast | 90 to 120 | Competitive typists and daily writers |
| Elite | 120 and up | Years of practice and a good keyboard |
Typing speed for common jobs
These are the speeds that job listings most often ask for. Employers also care about accuracy, so a score of 95% or higher matters as much as the number.
| Role | Common requirement |
|---|---|
| General office and customer service | 35 to 45 WPM |
| Administrative assistant, receptionist | 45 to 60 WPM |
| Data entry | 55 to 80 WPM |
| Transcription and court work | 80 WPM and up, plus very high accuracy |
What the record looks like
The fastest typing speeds ever reported are above 200 WPM: 216 WPM on a typewriter in 1946, and 212 WPM in a later sustained test. These come from careful records and short bursts, not from everyday typing.
Why your speed on a test can differ from your everyday speed
A test shows text you did not write. When you write your own sentences you stop to think, so everyday WPM is often lower than test WPM. That is normal, and it is why a copying test is the fair way to compare people.
Check your own speed
Take the free typing test or try a 1 minute or 5 minute typing test. When you are done you can get a free typing certificate.
Questions
What is the average typing speed?
About 40 WPM for adults. The range most people fall into is 38 to 45 WPM.
What is a good typing speed?
Between 45 and 65 WPM is good and meets most job requirements. Above 65 WPM is fast.
Is 60 WPM good?
Yes. 60 WPM is above average and good enough for nearly any office job.
How can I improve my typing speed?
Keep your eyes on the screen, use all ten fingers, practise a few minutes every day, and build accuracy first. Speed follows.