Average Reaction Time

The average reaction time for a simple visual stimulus—such as a light turning on or off—is typically around 250-300 milliseconds. That might sound fast, but it is slower than trained athletes, gamers, and racing drivers, who often achieve 200-250 ms or better. This guide explains what the research says about average reaction time, how it varies by age and activity, and how you can compare your own reflex speed test results.

What Is the Average Human Reaction Time?

Studies on simple visual reaction time generally report averages between 250 and 300 ms for healthy adults. The exact number depends on the test design, stimulus type, and how the measurement is taken. Auditory reaction time (responding to a sound) tends to be slightly faster than visual, often by 20-50 ms.

Why Milliseconds Matter

In a milliseconds reaction test, every 10-20 ms can make a noticeable difference. A 50 ms improvement might move you from average to above average. For athletes, drivers, and gamers, reaction time directly affects performance. That is why many people take a reaction time test online to track their progress.

Average Reaction Time by Population

Different groups show different averages:

• General population — About 250-300 ms for simple visual tests
• Elite athletes and gamers — Often 200-250 ms or better
• Young adults (18-25) — Typically fastest, around 220-250 ms
• Older adults (60+) — Often 280-350 ms or more

For age-specific benchmarks, see our detailed guide on reaction time by age.

What Affects Average Reaction Time?

Several factors can shift your results up or down:

• Fatigue and sleep — Poor sleep can add 20-50 ms or more
• Attention and focus — Expecting the stimulus reduces reaction time
• Practice — Repeated exposure to the same task tends to improve speed
• Age — Peak performance is usually in the late teens to early twenties

To improve your reaction time, see our guide on how to improve reaction time.

How Does Your Average Compare?

If you want to know whether your reaction time is above or below average, take a reflex speed test and compare your result to these benchmarks. Our free reaction time test online gives you a precise time in milliseconds and rates your performance. For more on what counts as good, read what is a good reaction time.

Understanding Variation in Reaction Time

Your reaction time is not fixed. It fluctuates from day to day and even from attempt to attempt. A single slow result does not mean you are below average—fatigue, distraction, or a fluke can add 50-100 ms. That is why it helps to take multiple attempts and look at your average or best over several sessions.

Consistency matters. Elite performers not only have fast average times but also low variation. If your results swing wildly between 200 ms and 400 ms, focus on reducing that spread before chasing the lowest possible number.

Auditory vs Visual Reaction Time

Most online reflex speed tests use visual stimuli (lights, colours). Auditory reaction time—responding to a sound—tends to be 20-50 ms faster for most people, because sound reaches the brain slightly quicker than visual signals. If you are comparing your results to research, check whether the study used visual or auditory tests. Our F1-style test is visual, so use visual benchmarks when comparing.

Tracking Your Progress Over Time

Take a reaction time test online regularly to see how your average changes. Note your best time, your typical run, and any patterns (e.g. faster in the morning, slower when tired). Over weeks, many people see improvements of 20-50 ms with consistent practice. See how to improve reaction time for practical tips.