Count Space keydowns that reach this page, with auto-repeat events filtered out. Choose free count or a timed run to see the total, the average rate and short-interval flags. Everything runs locally in your browser; no keystroke leaves your device.
How this test works
The counter listens for keydown events whose code is Space. Each accepted event adds one to the total; events with the repeat flag are skipped. The readout shows elapsed or remaining time, the average presses per second, and a count of short gaps between accepted events. The key must be directed to the page rather than a focused control.
Timing uses the browser's monotonic clock (performance.now), rather than the wall clock. A timed window starts with the first counted event. Only events handled before the selected duration has elapsed are counted; once the run finishes, choose Reset or another mode to start again. For each counted event after the first, a gap under 30 milliseconds increments the Chatter readout. That is a screening threshold in this tool, not a measured limit on human tapping speed.
These readings describe browser events, not the switch's electrical behavior, actuation force or feel. Scheduling delays or other parts of the input path can affect the gaps. If flags recur during slow presses with full releases, compare another application or computer before drawing a conclusion about the keyboard. The keyboard chatter guide covers these checks, cleaning and debounce settings.
Frequently asked questions
Why did the chatter counter go up when I only pressed once?
The flag means two counted keydowns reached the handler less than 30 milliseconds apart. That is this tool's screening threshold, not proof of a switch fault. Browser scheduling or other parts of the input path can affect the gap. Try slow presses with a full release between them, then compare the same keyboard in another application or on another computer before deciding whether to clean or replace a switch.
Does holding the spacebar down add to the count?
Holding the key normally generates repeat-marked events, which this counter ignores. Those events do not increase the total. An additional unmarked keydown can still be counted, so the total describes received events rather than physical contacts.
What is a good presses-per-second score?
Use the rate to compare your own runs with the same duration and tapping technique. There is no population benchmark supplied here. Changing fingers or run length changes what you are comparing. Take a break if rapid tapping becomes uncomfortable.
Why doesn't the page scroll when I press the spacebar?
While the counter handles a Space keydown, it prevents the normal page-scroll action. Focused controls keep their usual behavior: Space can activate a button or toggle an FAQ rather than add to the counter. Click an empty part of the page if a control still has focus when you want to count.
Can this tool prove my spacebar is faulty?
No. It records the events delivered through the keyboard, operating system and browser; it does not inspect switch contacts. Repeated short gaps during slow, separate presses are worth investigating, but they do not identify the cause. Comparing another application or computer can help narrow down where the pattern appears, not certify the keyboard as faulty.
Device Bench