Free Word Counter Online - Characters & Reading Time
Count words, characters, sentences, and paragraphs instantly. Best free word counter with reading time estimate. Essential tool for writers, students, and content creators.
Quick Answer
To count words free online, use Practical Web Tools' browser-based word counter at practicalwebtools.com. Simply type or paste your text, and instantly see word count, character count, sentences, paragraphs, and estimated reading time. All counting happens in real-time as you type with no signup required.
Key Facts about Word Counter:
- Word counting happens entirely in your browser with real-time updates as you type
- 100% free with no signup, no limits, and no account required
- Counts words, characters (with and without spaces), sentences, and paragraphs
- Works on all devices: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
- Includes reading time and speaking time estimates
- Paste text from any source - Word, PDF, web pages, and more
Why Use Our Word Counter?
Comprehensive text analysis:
Complete Stats
Words, characters, sentences, paragraphs, reading time.
Real-Time
Counts update as you type.
Any Device
Works on desktop and mobile.
Paste Friendly
Paste text from any source.
Accurate
Precise counting algorithms.
Free
No cost, no account needed.
How to Word Counter in 3 Easy Steps
Instant word counting:
Enter Text
Type or paste your text.
See Stats
Counts appear instantly.
Use Results
Copy or adjust as needed.
Why Count Words?
Meet word limits
Track writing progress
Optimize content length
Estimate reading time
Common Use Cases for Word Counter
Perfect for:
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our word counter
How do I count words for free online?
Use Practical Web Tools free word counter - paste text and see real-time stats instantly.
Simply type or paste your text into our free word counter. Stats update in real-time as you type - words, characters, sentences, paragraphs, and reading time.
What is the best free word counter 2025?
Practical Web Tools is the best free word counter - real-time counting, reading time, no signup.
Our word counter is the best free option in 2025 because it counts in real-time, includes reading time, works on any device, and requires no signup.
How are words counted?
Words are separated by spaces and punctuation, matching Microsoft Word standards.
Words are separated by spaces and punctuation, matching standard word counting methods used by Microsoft Word and Google Docs.
How is reading time calculated?
Reading time uses 200-250 words per minute; speaking time uses 150 words per minute.
Reading time is estimated at the average adult reading speed of 200-250 words per minute. Speaking time uses about 150 words per minute.
Does it count characters with and without spaces?
Yes, both character counts with and without spaces are displayed.
Yes! We show both character counts - with spaces and without spaces - for maximum flexibility with different requirements.
Can I count words in a file?
Copy and paste file contents from Word, PDF, or any document.
Paste the file contents into the counter to analyze. Copy from Word, PDF, or any document and paste directly.
Still have questions? Try the tool yourself!
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