Tap tempo: find the BPM of any song
Play a song and tap along to the beat — on the pad, with the Space bar or any key. The BPM appears after two taps and gets more accurate with every tap. Then send it to the metronome in one click.
How to find a song’s tempo
- Start the song and listen for the pulse — usually the kick and snare, or the beat you would clap or nod to.
- Tap the pad (or press any key) on every beat. Tap at least 8 times for a reliable number.
- Watch the steadiness score: above 90% means your taps were even.
- Stop tapping for 2.5 seconds to start a new measurement, or press Reset.
- Press “Open in the metronome” to practise along at exactly that tempo.
What is tap tempo?
Tap tempo measures the time between your taps and converts it to beats per minute. It averages the last sixteen taps, so small mistakes cancel out: one early tap barely changes the result. It is what drummers, DJs and producers use to find a song’s tempo before learning it or programming a click.
Half time and double time
If the number looks far too slow or fast, you may be tapping every other beat, or every eighth note. A song at 140 BPM can feel like 70 if you tap only on the snare. Both are “right”; choose the one that matches how you count the song. Most pop and rock songs sit between 80 and 140 BPM.
Typical tempos by style
Once you know a song’s tempo, practise the hard parts with the metronome 20–30% slower, then raise it step by step.
- Ballads: 60–80 BPM
- Hip-hop: 85–100 BPM
- Pop and rock: 100–130 BPM
- House and disco: 118–128 BPM
- Punk: 160–200 BPM
- Drum and bass: around 170–175 BPM
Tips for an accurate BPM
Tap where you would clap. Follow the main pulse, not every note of the melody.
Close your eyes. Listening rather than watching the number makes your taps more even.
Check a few sections. Some songs speed up; tap during the verse and the chorus.
Use the score. A low steadiness score means it is worth trying again.
Tap tempo questions
How many taps do I need?
Two give a first number; eight or more give an accurate one.
Which keys can I use?
Any key except Tab, plus the big pad. On a phone, tap the pad.
Why does my result keep changing?
Each tap updates the average. It settles as you keep tapping evenly.
Can I use the tempo in the metronome?
Yes. “Open in the metronome” opens it at your BPM.
Is it free?
Yes, no download or account.