MouseTally / tests / spacebar-counter
Key presses per secondSpacebar Counter
A keyboard version of the click test. Tap Space as quickly as you can; holding the key does nothing because auto-repeat is filtered out.
- Left
- 5.00
- Count
- 0
- SPS
- 0.00
How it works
- 1.
No clicking needed
Once the page is open, the spacebar drives the dial. On a phone you can tap the dial instead.
- 2.
Taps, not holds
Operating systems repeat a held key many times a second. MouseTally ignores those repeats, so each count is a genuine press.
- 3.
Try both thumbs
Alternating thumbs is a common trick for higher scores — compare both styles on the tally sheet.
Rank scale
SPS18+ SPS14–18 SPS10–14 SPS7–10 SPS4–7 SPS0–4 SPSQuestions
- Why does the page not scroll when I press Space?
- The counter captures the spacebar while this page is open so the browser does not jump down the page mid-round.
- What is a typical score?
- Around 6 to 8 presses per second is common. Gamers who practise rhythm often reach 10 or more.
Notes on this test
About this test
The spacebar counter counts each time the spacebar goes down after being released. Holding the key does not count, even though your computer sends automatic repeat signals while a key is held. Click or tap the panel first so the page receives your key presses.
Reading your result
Most people tap the spacebar 6 to 9 times per second with one thumb. Alternating two thumbs often adds two or three presses per second. Keyboards feel different at speed: laptop keys have short travel, while mechanical spacebars use stabilisers that can add a little friction.
Tips
Tap near the middle of the spacebar so it moves evenly, use a relaxed thumb and keep the wrist still. Short rounds are kind to the base of the thumb, which already works hard during typing and phone use. Our guide to spacebar speed and keyboards covers stabilisers, switches and two-thumb technique.
Checking a keyboard
Tap slowly ten times; the counter should show ten. Missing or extra counts can point to a sticky or worn key, or to keyboard debounce settings.