Key Repeat Rate Test
Hold any key to measure initial repeat delay (ms) and repeat rate (Hz). Reflects OS/browser settings, not hardware polling alone.
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Initial delay
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Repeat rate
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Repeat events
Key event timeline
Runs entirely in your browser. No data is collected.
How to use
- Press and hold any key without releasing until repeat events stream in.
- Wait for the UI to show initial delay (time until first repeat) and repeat rate (Hz).
- Read the live timeline of repeat intervals if shown.
- Release the key, then hold again for another measurement if needed.
- Change OS keyboard repeat delay / repeat rate in system settings, then re-run here to verify.
- Click Reset to clear stats and the chart before a new baseline.
FAQ
What is key repeat rate?
After you hold a key, the OS sends repeated keydown events at a fixed rate (Hz). This tool measures the pause before the first repeat (delay) and the interval between subsequent repeats (Hz).
Why does my Hz match Windows or macOS settings?
Browsers receive throttled repeat events from the operating system. Hardware capable of faster repeat may still show ~30 Hz if the OS is set that way.
What is a good gaming repeat setting?
Many gamers prefer roughly 200–250 ms initial delay and 30–50 Hz repeat rate. The tool labels results as Gaming-Ready, Average, or Below Average using those ranges.
Is data collected?
No. Timing uses performance.now() in your browser only.
Introduction
The Key Repeat Rate Test visualizes OS keyboard repeat: how long you wait for the first repeat after holding a key (initial delay, ms) and how fast repeats arrive afterward (repeat rate, Hz). A scrolling timeline shows recent repeat intervals when available.
Purpose
- Verify that OS repeat settings “feel right” for gaming vs typing.
- Troubleshoot sluggish key repeat after OS updates.
Typical OS profiles
| Use case | Initial delay (typical) | Repeat rate (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming | 200–250 ms | 30–50 Hz |
| Typing | 400–500 ms | 20–31 Hz |
Key Features
- Measures initial delay to first repeat and steady-state repeat Hz.
- Live timeline / bar visualization of successive repeat intervals (where shown in UI).
- Plain-language “gaming vs typing” verdict tied to typical ranges.
Common Use Cases
- Tweaking Windows or macOS keyboard repeat sliders to personal taste.
- Explaining to new players why in-game chat still feels sluggish at OS defaults.
Best Practices
- After each OS settings change, click Reset in the tester and hold again.
- Compare results only on the same OS profile — repeat APIs differ across operating systems.
Comparison metrics
| Metric | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Initial delay (ms) | Wait before the first auto-repeat — lower can feel snappier for movement keys. |
| Repeat Hz | Steady-state repeats per second from the OS — should track system settings after adjustment. |
| Timeline bars | Recent interval jitter — spikes may mean load or wireless variance. |
Adjust repeat in system keyboard settings, then re-measure here.