What Is a Good Reaction Time?
A good reaction time depends on context: the type of test, your age, and what you are comparing against. For a simple visual reflex speed test—like tapping when a light goes out—typical benchmarks put “good” in the 200-250 ms range. Below that is excellent; above is average or room to improve. This guide breaks down the numbers and shows how to interpret your reaction time test results.
Reaction Time Rating Tiers
For a simple visual reaction test, you can use these approximate ranges:
- Under 150 ms — Elite; rare outside professional athletes and esports
- 150-200 ms — Very good; above average for most people
- 200-250 ms — Good; solid for everyday use and many sports
- 250-300 ms — Average for adults
- 300-400 ms — Below average; practice can help
- Over 400 ms — Slower; worth checking sleep, focus, and practice
For more on typical ranges, see our guide on average reaction time.
What Makes a Reaction Time “Good”?
Several factors determine whether your milliseconds reaction time is good for your situation:
Your Age
Reaction time varies by age. A 250 ms result is excellent for someone in their 60s but average for a 20-year-old. For age-specific benchmarks, see reaction time by age.
The Task Type
Simple reaction tests (one stimulus, one response) are faster than choice reaction tests (multiple options). Our reaction time test online is a simple visual test, so use simple-test benchmarks when comparing.
Consistency
A single fast result is less meaningful than a consistent average. Take multiple attempts and track your best and average. Stability matters as much as raw speed.
How Do Elite Performers Compare?
F1 drivers, pro gamers, and elite athletes often achieve reaction times in the 150-250 ms range for simple visual tasks. The very fastest recorded times are around 100-120 ms, but those are rare outliers. Consistently under 200 ms is solid; under 180 ms is exceptional.
Can You Reach a Good Reaction Time?
Most people can improve toward or into the “good” range with practice, sleep, and focus. For tips, read our guide on how to improve reaction time. Then put it into practice with the free reaction time test online on the homepage—it gives you a precise time in milliseconds and a rating based on these benchmarks.
Understanding Your First Test Result
Your first reflex speed test may not reflect your true potential. Many people are slower on the first attempt due to unfamiliarity and nerves. Take several runs and use your best or average. With practice, you will get more consistent and often faster.
Why Benchmarks Matter
Knowing average reaction time and reaction time by age helps you set realistic goals. If you are 45 and scoring 260 ms, you are doing well for your age. If you are 25 and scoring 320 ms, there is room to improve. Context matters—use benchmarks to guide your training, not to discourage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good reaction time in milliseconds?
For a simple visual reaction test, under 250 ms is good, under 200 ms is excellent, and under 180 ms is elite. The average for adults is around 250-300 ms.
Is 200ms reaction time good?
Yes. A 200 ms reaction time is very good—above average for the general population. It is common among trained athletes, gamers, and racing drivers.
What is the fastest human reaction time?
For simple visual reaction tests, the fastest recorded times are around 100-120 ms. However, these are rare outliers. Consistently under 150 ms is considered elite.
How can I test if my reaction time is good?
Take a free reaction time test online. Our F1-style test measures your response in milliseconds and rates your performance against benchmarks. Compare your result to average and elite ranges.