Reaction Time Test
This reaction time test measures how quickly you click after the box changes colour. Clicking early counts as a false start and is not included in your average, so the result reflects real reactions.
How to use the Reaction Time Test
- Wait for the box to be ready and start the round.
- Do not click until the colour changes.
- Click as soon as it changes.
- Repeat several rounds and read your last, average and median times.
Understanding your results
The result includes display, browser, operating system and mouse latency on top of your own reaction time, so it will be higher than a pure reaction. Use it to compare yourself over time on the same setup.
The median is less affected by one slow or lucky round than the average.
Worked example: average versus median
Say you complete five rounds with these times: 245 ms, 262 ms, 231 ms, 310 ms and 252 ms.
- The average is (245 + 262 + 231 + 310 + 252) ÷ 5 = 260 ms.
- The median is the middle value after sorting (231, 245, 252, 262, 310), which is 252 ms.
The 310 ms round pulled the average up, while the median ignored it. That is why the median is the better number to track over time. If you only have a few rounds, one distracted attempt can move the average a lot.
False starts are not counted, so clicking too early costs you the round but not your average. Wait for the colour to change before you move.
What affects your reaction time result
- Display refresh rate. On a 60 Hz screen, one frame lasts about 16.7 ms, so the colour change can appear up to one frame late. A higher refresh rate reduces that delay.
- Wired or wireless. A good wireless mouse performs well, but a wired mouse removes one source of variation.
- System load. Close heavy tabs and programs so the browser can respond quickly.
- Attention and tiredness. Your focus matters more than the equipment. Test when you are alert, and avoid guessing the timing.
- Same setup every time. To see progress, keep the screen, browser and mouse the same.
The result includes more than your own reaction, so use it to compare yourself over time, not as a medical or scientific measurement. For aiming practice, try the accuracy test and the tracking test.
Reaction Time Test FAQ
What is a typical reaction time?
Many people land around 200 to 300 ms in browser tests, but your setup matters.
Why does my result change between runs?
Attention, fatigue and system latency all vary. Use the median across several rounds.
Does a faster mouse improve it?
Slightly, through lower latency, but your own reaction is the largest factor.