Average Typing Speed: What Is a Good WPM?
Typing speed is measured in words per minute, or WPM. It is one of the most useful everyday skills, from school essays and office work to gaming chat. This guide explains the average typing speed for most people, what counts as a good WPM and how to check a personal score in a minute.
Average WPM for most people
Most adults type at around 40 words per minute. People who have never learned touch typing often sit between 25 and 35 WPM, while those who type all day for work usually reach 50 to 70. Students and gamers who spend a lot of time on a keyboard often type faster than their age might suggest.
Accuracy matters as much as speed. A fast result with many mistakes is less useful than a slightly slower one with almost none, which is why most tests show accuracy next to the WPM figure.
What is a good typing speed?
The right target depends on what the keyboard is used for. The levels below match the ratings on the free typing speed test:
| Words per minute | Level | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Under 30 | Getting Started | Still learning the keyboard |
| 30–45 | Average Typist | A typical everyday speed |
| 45–65 | Fast Typist | Comfortable for most jobs |
| 65–90 | Pro Typist | A strong professional speed |
| 90 and up | Lightning Fingers | Exceptional |
What WPM do jobs ask for?
Requirements vary, but office and admin roles often look for around 40 to 60 WPM with high accuracy. Jobs built around typing, such as transcription or data entry, may ask for 60 WPM or more. For most other work, a comfortable, accurate speed matters more than a high number.
What affects typing speed
- Touch typing: typing without looking at the keys is the biggest single factor.
- Practice: regular, short sessions build speed faster than occasional long ones.
- The text: simple, common words are quicker to type than long or technical ones.
- The keyboard: a comfortable keyboard helps a little, but technique matters far more.
- Test length: short tests often give higher scores than longer ones, as the hands tire.
How to check a personal score
A one-minute WPM test gives a quick, fair result. Taking it three times and using the average evens out a lucky or unlucky run. The test also offers shorter 15 and 30 second options for a quick check, and 3 to 10 minute tests for stamina.
How to raise the score
Learning touch typing, putting accuracy first and practising for ten minutes a day are the quickest ways to move up a level. The guide on how to type faster explains each step, with a simple four-week plan.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average WPM?
Most adults type at around 40 words per minute. Anything from about 30 to 45 WPM counts as average on the CPSTesting.com typing test.
Is 60 WPM fast?
Yes. 60 WPM is well above average and fast enough for almost any office job. It sits in the Fast Typist level on the typing test.
What is the fastest typing speed?
The fastest typists have been recorded at well over 200 WPM for short bursts. For everyday typing, 90 WPM and above is already exceptional.