About Word & Character Counter
Count words, characters, sentences, paragraphs, and reading time as you type — plus the exact UTF-8 and UTF-16 byte size, useful for database limits and API payloads. Everything runs live in your browser.
How to Use
- Type or paste your text into the box.
- Watch the word, character, sentence and paragraph counts update instantly.
- Check reading and speaking time estimates for the current text.
- Use the byte-size metrics when you need UTF-8 or UTF-16 sizes.
Why Use This Tool?
- Accurate — built on precise, well-tested mathematical formulas.
- Instant — all calculations happen client-side for zero latency.
- Private — no data is sent to any server; your information stays on your device.
- Free — no sign-up, no limits, no hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the character count include spaces?
Yes, the main character count includes spaces. A separate 'characters (no spaces)' figure is shown as well, which is what most assignment and form limits refer to.
How is reading time estimated?
Reading time assumes an average adult reading speed of about 238 words per minute; speaking time assumes roughly 130 words per minute.
Why do UTF-8 and UTF-16 sizes differ?
Plain English letters take 1 byte in UTF-8 but 2 in UTF-16. Accented and non-Latin characters and emoji take more. This matters for VARCHAR limits and API size caps.