Voiceover Script Calculator
Accurately estimate the recording duration and the cost of your voiceover. Professional tool for radio, TV, e-learning, dubbing and IVR.
Voiceover Style Presets
Choose a reading pace. The version with pauses adds about 15%. Pricing uses word count and usage rights at standard turnaround.
Cost Estimator
How does the script calculator work?
The calculator uses the industry-standard voiceover formula to estimate recording duration based on the number of words and the selected speaking rate.
Calculation formula:
Duration (seconds) = (Word count ÷ WPM) × 60
The industry-standard speaking rate is expressed in WPM (Words Per Minute). Different project types require different speeds to be efficient and easy to listen to.
Why does WPM matter?
- Slow narration (120 WPM): Ideal for meditative content and audiobooks where listeners need time to process information.
- Conversational (150 WPM): The natural speed of everyday conversation, perfect for podcasts and corporate narration.
- Commercial (165 WPM): Suitable for TV/radio spots where you need to fit a lot into 15-30 seconds.
- E-learning (180 WPM): The 180-word-per-minute preset gives a faster estimate. For a course with pauses, adjust the pace and check timing against a short script sample.
- Fast read (200+ WPM): For legal disclaimers and technical content where speed is critical.
Voiceover speed guide by project type
| Project Type | Recommended WPM | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Audiobook / Narration | 100-130 | Literary content requiring actor-level intonation |
| Meditation / Wellness | 110-130 | Relaxing content with contemplative pauses |
| Podcast / Interview | 140-160 | Natural conversation between people |
| Corporate / Business | 150-170 | Professional presentations and training |
| TV / Radio Ads | 165-180 | Spots that must fit within 15-30 seconds |
| E-learning / Courses | 160-185 | Educational content with speed-clarity balance |
| IVR / Automation | 180-210 | Interactive voice response systems |
| Dubbing / Sync | Variable | Determined by scene length and lip-sync |
| Legal / Disclaimer | 210-230 | Legal content that must be delivered quickly |
Tips for an effective script
1. Word length matters
Longer words affect speaking rhythm. A script with short words will sound more natural at higher speeds.
2. Punctuation influences duration
Natural pauses (commas, periods) increase actual recording duration by 10-20%. The calculator accounts for a 15% buffer.
3. Syllable count matters more than word count
In professional voiceover, syllable counts are sometimes used instead of word counts for greater accuracy, but for quick estimates, standard WPM is sufficient.
4. Test with a professional
The estimates are very accurate, but every voice is unique. A professional voice actor can vary by ±5-10 seconds.
Factors that influence voiceover pricing
1. Recording duration
I calculate the price from the word count, usage rights and deadline. The estimated duration helps you plan the project.
2. Project type
Commercial projects are more expensive than corporate narrations. Dubbing and sync are more expensive due to complexity.
3. Revisions and takes
The number of different versions or takes requested influences price. Simple recordings = lower costs.
4. Delivery urgency
Standard turnaround is 24-48h. A shorter deadline changes the calculation, while a flexible one lowers it.
5. Voice actor experience
Experienced voice actors with an established portfolio cost more than beginners. Professionalism is reflected in the price.
6. Studio quality and post-production
Voice editing covers cleanup, level normalization and export. I quote advanced mastering, picture sync and sound design to match your brief.
7. Usage rights
In addition to the recording cost, there is the cost of usage rights. This varies based on several factors:
- A licence specifies the channels, territory and period in which you can use the recording. A buyout grants broader rights under the terms agreed for the project.
- Territory: Local (Romania), regional (Europe) or global: the larger the territory, the higher the cost
- License duration: 6 months, 1 year, 2 years or perpetual
- Distribution channels: TV, radio, online, social media, streaming: each extra channel adds to the cost
- Exclusivity: If you want the voice not to be used by direct competitors, an exclusivity fee applies
The estimate includes the displayed usage rights and standard turnaround. For other channels, territories or deadlines, use the Quote Generator and share your brief for an exact quote.