Audio Reaction Time Test
Test your reaction to sound. Click when you hear the beep.
Click to Start
Listen for the beep, then click
Tips for Best Results
Use headphones for the most accurate results—speakers add air travel delay.
Try closing your eyes and focusing purely on listening. Many users find this improves their reaction time by 10-20ms.
Your auditory cortex processes sound in 8-10ms, faster than visual processing at 20-40ms. That's why audio reaction is naturally quicker!
About Audio Reaction Test
An audio reaction test measures how quickly you respond to sound rather than visual stimuli. Your ears process sound faster than your eyes process light—audio signals reach your brain in about 8-10ms, while visual signals take 20-40ms.
This makes audio reaction times naturally faster than visual reaction times for most people. The difference is typically 20-40ms.
Average Audio Reaction Time
The average audio reaction time is around 170-220ms, which is faster than visual reaction (200-250ms). Elite performers can achieve times under 140ms.
Factors like headphone quality, volume level, and background noise significantly affect results. Using headphones typically improves scores by 10-20ms compared to speakers.
Tips for Better Results
Use headphones instead of speakers—they deliver sound directly to your ears without travel delay. Test in a quiet environment to avoid distractions.
Set your volume to a comfortable but clear level. Too quiet and you'll hesitate; too loud causes discomfort that slows reaction.
Performance Benchmarks
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is audio reaction faster than visual?
Sound travels to your auditory cortex faster than light signals reach your visual cortex. The neural pathway for hearing is also shorter. Most people react 20-40ms faster to sound.
Should I use speakers or headphones?
Headphones are recommended. Sound from speakers needs to travel through air to reach your ears, adding delay. Headphones deliver sound directly.
Does this test my hearing?
No, this tests reaction speed to sounds you can clearly hear. It doesn't measure hearing sensitivity. Consult an audiologist for proper hearing tests.