Subtitle CPS (Reading Speed) Checker

Free browser tool · Nothing uploaded · Updated August 4, 2026

Find subtitles that are too fast to read. This tool measures each cue's reading speed in characters per second (CPS) and flags any that exceed your threshold, so you know which lines to shorten or give more time. It also flags durations and overlaps. Runs entirely in your browser.

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Max CPS
Min duration (s)
Max duration (s)
Min gap (ms)

What is a good CPS (reading speed) for subtitles?

Netflix's timed-text style guide caps adult content at 17 characters per second; many broadcasters aim for 15–17 CPS. Above that, viewers cannot finish reading before the subtitle disappears. The default here is 17; lower it for children's content or raise it for expert audiences.

Does CPS work for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean?

CJK languages pack more meaning per character, so their reading-speed limits are lower — typically around 9 CPS rather than 17. If you are checking CJK subtitles, set the threshold lower. The tool counts characters excluding spaces, which is the standard basis for CPS.

Frequently Asked Questions

What CPS threshold should I use?

17 characters per second is the common ceiling for adult Latin-script content (Netflix standard). Use around 9 for Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, and lower for children's content.

How is CPS calculated?

Characters in the cue (excluding spaces and formatting tags) divided by the cue's duration in seconds.

Can it also check duration and overlaps?

Yes. The same tool flags cues that are too short, too long, overlapping, or too close together. See also the Duration Checker.

Is my file uploaded?

No. Everything runs in your browser and the file never leaves your device.

See all free subtitle tools.

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