As we all know today data entry is one of the most basic skills required. It does not require any kind of qualification but just a good typing speed.
But many people out there are still not sure and wonder, “What is good typing speed for data entry?”.
Of course, typing speed is the most important factor in getting a data entry job. Whether you’re looking to get a work from home job or a corporate gig, understanding what qualifies as a good typing speed can give you an idea.
So, in this blog post, we will see the average typing speed for data entry as data entry typing speed is the most crucial factor to consider when applying for a data entry role.
Typing Speed Statistics
According to Wordsrated:
- Using a standard PC keyboard, average typing speeds have been found to be around 52 words per minute.
- One study found that the vast majority of people (88.90%) typically use 5 or more fingers when typing, leading to faster speeds than those who don’t.
- The rollover technique (where multiple keys are pressed simultaneously but released at different times) is used by the fastest typers for 40% to 70% of keystrokes.
- When using mobile devices, average typing speeds are around 38 wpm, significantly lower than when using a traditional keyboard.
What’s the Average Typing Speed?
The average typing speed for most people is around 40 words/minute. However, for the data entry position, you have to write 45 words per minute to meet industry standards. This is considered a decent speed for guaranteeing efficiency and productivity.
Average Typing Speed By Industry
Source: Wordsrated
A study of 980 full-time employees revealed that legal professionals are the fastest typists, averaging 60.60 words per minute. Following them are workers in arts, entertainment, and recreation with 56.70 wpm, and educators with 56.30 wpm. On the other hand, manufacturing employees recorded the slowest typing speed at 46.30 wpm.
When it comes to time spent typing during the workweek, tech and telecommunications workers topped the list, dedicating 82.20% of their time to typing tasks. In contrast, hotel, food services, and hospitality employees spent the least amount of time typing, at just 42.70%.
What’s the Good Typing Speed For Data Entry?
If you’re looking for a data entry role, 45-60 wpm typing speed is generally considered a good wpm range for data entry. If you type fast, such as 60 words per minute, you’ll be considered highly skilled and may have an advantage when you’re applying for competitive roles.
Typing Speed Required For Data Entry
When hiring a data entry operator, you must consider the typing speed needed for the position. A fast and accurate typist is essential for guaranteeing that all of the data entered into the system is correct.
You may come across many job postings that mention a typing speed of 80-90 words per minute in the job requirements.
Furthermore, if you’re not sure about how fast your typist should be then there are many typing tests available online that you can ask them to take. Remember that it is bad for a company’s productivity and profitability if a typist takes excessively long to type the information.
Freelancers can charge higher typing service rates if they have a faster typing speed. We have discussed earlier that the cost of an online typist can vary based on the amount and type of data entry required. The most common charges for each page range from $4 to $15, depending on the deadline and other criteria.
A typical page contains 350 words. However, as a general rule, most professional typists charge between $25 and $40 per hour. When looking for a data entry operator, it is important to get an estimate from the typist before starting the project.
Tips For Improving Your Typing Skills

Apart from practicing, there are different ways that you can enhance your typing speed.
- The most important thing that can improve your typing skills is of course practice as we all know that practice makes a man perfect.
- You can also get yourself into online typing courses as they provide structured lessons to enhance your typing efficiency.
- Use typing software that provides practice exercises and real-life scenarios to mimic data entry tasks.
- You must not compromise accuracy to achieve speed. Concentrating on precision and speed will naturally flow.
- A good posture while typing is also one of the best ways to type quickly.
Conclusion
Typing speed is a game-changer when it comes to data entry jobs. Whether you’re aiming for a freelance role or a full-time position, meeting the industry standard of 45-60 WPM can set you apart. But it’s not just about speed—accuracy and consistency are equally important for handling large volumes of information efficiently. With practice, the right tools, and a focus on precision, you can sharpen your skills and stay ahead in this fast-paced field.
If you’re searching for a skilled data entry operator with exceptional typing abilities, look no further than Prolance Global. Our platform connects you with top talent to ensure your data entry needs are handled efficiently and accurately.
For job seekers, Prolance Global is the perfect place to showcase your skills and find exciting data entry opportunities. With a vast network of professionals and employers, this platform is designed to help you grow and succeed in your career. Sign up today to get started!