Reaction Time Test: How Fast Are Your Reflexes?
Take this reaction time test to measure your reflexes in milliseconds. Click the box to begin, wait for it to turn from red to green, then click as fast as you can. Do five tries to get a fair average and see how you compare with typical human reaction times.
Results stay in your browser.
Quick answer: Click the box, wait for green, then click instantly. The typical human reaction time to a visual signal is around 200 to 300 milliseconds; most people average about 250 ms on tests like this.
How to take the reaction time test
- Click the blue box. It turns red: wait, and don’t click yet.
- After a random delay of 1.5 to 4.5 seconds it turns green. Click (or tap, or press Space) as fast as you can.
- Your time appears in milliseconds. Clicking while red counts as too soon and is not recorded.
- Do five tries. Your average is more reliable than a single lucky click.
What is a good reaction time?
| Average | Rating |
|---|---|
| Under 180 ms | Exceptional; often helped by anticipation |
| 180 to 230 ms | Faster than average |
| 230 to 290 ms | Average |
| 290 to 400 ms | Slower than average |
| Over 400 ms | Slow, or distracted |
Your result also includes your device’s delay. Screens add a few milliseconds, and wireless mice, touch screens and Bluetooth add more, so compare scores on the same device.
What affects reaction time?
- Age: reaction time is usually fastest in the late teens and twenties and slows gradually after that.
- Sleep and fatigue: being tired slows reactions noticeably, which is why drowsy driving is dangerous.
- Practice: gamers and athletes often score better on simple tests, partly from practice and focus.
- Caffeine: a moderate amount can make you slightly quicker for a while.
- Alcohol and some medicines: slow reactions; never drive impaired.
- Attention: phones and noise around you add delay.
Why reaction time matters
At 100 km/h (about 62 mph), a car travels about 28 metres every second, so even an extra tenth of a second before braking adds nearly 3 metres. In sports and esports, a few milliseconds can decide who wins. Testing now and then is a simple way to notice when you are too tired to focus.
Try more speed games with the CPS test and the typing test.
FAQ
Why is my time different on my phone?
Touch screens and phone browsers add their own delay. Compare results on the same device.
Can I improve my reaction time?
Good sleep, practice and focus help. Much of it depends on age and the device you use.
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