Audio Reaction Time Test
React to a beep instead of a colour. Sound on; the panel stays red so your eyes cannot help.
Five attempts make a score. Click, tap, Space or Enter all work.
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Three steps. You’re in.
- Turn your sound on, then click the box or press Space. The first click also unlocks audio in your browser.
- After a random 1.5 to 4.5 seconds a short 1 kHz beep plays. Click, tap or press Space as soon as you hear it.
- Five rounds give you an average and best, with a reminder to compare the same audio setup.
Auditory vs visual reaction time
This test uses a sound instead of a visual signal. It measures the interval from scheduling a beep to your input, including audio output and input delay. We have no validated average for this browser test, so compare your own sessions using the same audio device. The visual reaction test uses a different signal and is not directly interchangeable.
Sound must be on, and Bluetooth adds delay
Wireless audio can add buffering delay, and the amount depends on the device and codec. The timer starts when the beep is scheduled, not when it reaches your ear. Use the same output device for comparisons; built-in speakers or wired headphones avoid Bluetooth buffering.
How the beep is generated
The page uses the Web Audio API: a sine oscillator at 1000 Hz, with gain set to 0.25, for 150 ms. Your first interaction enables audio. The page records its browser timestamp immediately after scheduling the beep; output buffering, speakers or headphones, and input delay are included in the result. The gain setting is not a calibrated sound-pressure level. Set a comfortable system volume before starting.
Frequently asked questions
Why can I not hear the beep?
Check that the tab is not muted (right-click the tab), that system volume is up, and that the right output device is selected. Safari and iOS also need the ring/silent switch off silent. Then click the box once more; the first click unlocks audio.
Why does the panel not turn green?
On purpose. If it changed colour when the beep played you would react to the colour, which is the visual test. In audio mode the panel stays red until you react.
Is an audio reaction time of 250 ms good?
There is no validated ranking for this browser test. Audio hardware can change the score substantially. Use repeated averages on the same setup as your baseline.
Does Bluetooth affect the score?
Yes. Bluetooth audio buffering adds delay that is included in the score. Use built-in speakers or wired output, and keep the device consistent when comparing sessions.
Is the beep loud?
It plays at 25% of the browser’s full scale for 150 ms. With headphones, set your volume before starting; a 1 kHz tone is easy to hear at low levels.
Can I use this test with a screen reader?
Yes. The test is driven by Space or Enter, the beep is the stimulus, and results are announced through a live region after each round.