liminfoBPM Tap Tempo
Free web tool: BPM Tap Tempo
BPM
-
Taps
0
Whole (4)
2000.0 ms
Half (2)
1000.0 ms
Quarter (1)
500.0 ms
8th
250.0 ms
16th
125.0 ms
Dotted Quarter
750.0 ms
Dotted 8th
375.0 ms
Triplet Quarter
333.3 ms
Triplet 8th
166.7 ms
About BPM Tap Tempo
The BPM Tap Tempo tool lets you determine the tempo of any song or rhythm by simply tapping a button in time with the beat. Each tap records a timestamp, and the tool calculates the average interval between taps to determine the BPM. It supports up to 20 taps for high accuracy and automatically resets if you pause for more than 3 seconds — so you can start a new measurement without clicking reset. The live BPM and tap count are displayed in large text as you tap.
In addition to measuring BPM by tapping, the tool includes a BPM-to-milliseconds converter that shows timing values for nine note types: whole note (4 beats), half note (2 beats), quarter note (1 beat), 8th note, 16th note, dotted quarter note (1.5 beats), dotted 8th note (0.75 beats), triplet quarter note (2/3 beats), and triplet 8th note (1/3 beats). These values are essential for setting tempo-synchronized delay, reverb, arpeggiator, and LFO rates in music production software.
The tap detection uses JavaScript's Date.now() to record precise millisecond timestamps for each tap. The BPM is computed as 60,000 divided by the mean interval between consecutive taps. This approach gives accurate readings after just 2 taps and becomes increasingly precise with more taps. The tool is designed for DJs, musicians, producers, and music teachers who need to quickly identify or match a tempo during performance or practice.
Key Features
- Tap-to-BPM detection using average interval across up to 20 taps
- Automatic reset after 3 seconds of inactivity for seamless re-tapping
- Live display of current BPM and tap count updated on every tap
- BPM-to-ms converter for 9 note types: whole, half, quarter, 8th, 16th, dotted quarter, dotted 8th, triplet quarter, and triplet 8th
- Grid layout showing all note timing values at a glance
- Manual BPM input for the converter independent of tap detection
- 100% client-side using Date.now() timestamps — no server required
- No sign-up, no account, and completely free to use
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure BPM with the tap tempo tool?
Click or tap the large TAP button repeatedly in time with the beat of the music. The tool records a timestamp on each tap and calculates the BPM from the average time between taps. You need at least 2 taps to get a reading, and the more taps you provide (up to 20), the more accurate the result.
Why does the BPM reset automatically?
If more than 3 seconds pass between two consecutive taps, the tool assumes you have stopped and are starting a new measurement. It resets the tap history to just the most recent tap so your next sequence starts fresh. This prevents old taps from skewing a new measurement.
How accurate is tap tempo BPM detection?
Accuracy improves with more taps. With 2 taps you get a rough estimate based on a single interval. With 8-10 taps you get a reliable average. Human tapping variability of ±10-20ms per tap at 120 BPM results in about ±1-2 BPM error on a 10-tap average. For studio use, always verify with a precise click track.
What is the difference between dotted and triplet notes?
A dotted note lasts 1.5 times its normal value. A dotted quarter at 120 BPM is 750ms. A triplet note fits 3 into the space of 2, so a triplet quarter at 120 BPM is 333.3ms. These variations are used to set delay times that create different rhythmic feels — dotted notes create a flowing echo, triplets create a shuffle or swing feel.
Can I use this tool on a mobile phone?
Yes. The TAP button is designed as a large touch target for easy mobile use. Tap it with your finger in time with the music. The responsive layout also ensures the note timing grid is readable on smaller screens.
Can I enter a BPM manually for the converter?
Yes. Below the tap area there is a separate BPM input field labeled "BPM to ms Converter." You can type any BPM value there to see the corresponding millisecond values for all 9 note types without affecting the tap detection.
What note types does the BPM-to-ms converter show?
The converter shows millisecond values for: Whole note (4 beats), Half note (2 beats), Quarter note (1 beat), 8th note, 16th note, Dotted Quarter (1.5 beats), Dotted 8th (0.75 beats), Triplet Quarter (2/3 beats), and Triplet 8th (1/3 beats). Each value is calculated from 60,000 / BPM × note_factor.
Is the BPM Tap Tempo tool free?
Yes, completely free with no usage limits and no account required. It is part of liminfo.com's collection of free online music tools.