The Reaction Time Test measures how quickly you respond to a signal. Wait for the screen to turn green, click or tap as fast as you can, and see your time in milliseconds. It is free, runs in your browser with no download or sign up, works on phones and computers, and keeps working offline once loaded.
Inspired by: The classic reaction time test used in schools, sports and online challenges.
How to play Reaction Time Test
- Press Play. The screen turns red, which means wait.
- After a random pause the screen turns green. The pause is different every time, so you cannot guess it.
- Click, tap or press Space as soon as you see green. Your time appears in milliseconds.
- Clicking while the screen is still red counts as too soon. That try is not scored, so you can go again.
- After five good tries you get your average. A lower number is better.
Controls
- Keyboard: Press Space, Enter or any arrow key to react.
- Mouse: Click anywhere on the screen.
- Touch screen: Tap anywhere on the screen or press the Tap button.
Tips to score higher
- Keep your finger hovering just above the button so you only need to move a tiny distance.
- Look at the middle of the screen. Your eyes catch the colour change faster when you are not scanning around.
- Do not try to guess the time of the change. Waiting calmly and reacting is quicker than gambling.
- A bigger screen, a wired mouse or a keyboard key can feel faster than a slow touchscreen.
- Rest between rounds. Reaction time gets slower when you are tired.
The story behind Reaction Time Test
Scientists have measured reaction time since the 1800s. The Dutch scientist Franciscus Donders ran some of the first experiments on how long the mind takes to respond to a signal, and since then reaction tests have been used in psychology, driving research and sport. Starting a sprint when the gun fires is a famous reaction challenge. Many of us tried the school ruler drop test with a friend, catching the ruler as fast as we could. The typical result for visual reaction time on a computer is about a quarter of a second, though screens, devices and practice all change the number you see.
Questions players ask
What is a good reaction time?
Many people land around 200 to 300 milliseconds on a screen test. Under 200 is very quick. Your device and screen add a little delay.
Why does my score change each time?
Reaction time varies with focus, tiredness and the device you use. That is why the game averages five tries.
What does too soon mean?
You clicked before the screen turned green. That try is not counted and you can start it again.
Is the Reaction Time Test free?
Yes. It is free with no sign up and no download.
Can I use it offline?
Yes. Open the page once with internet and it keeps working without a connection.