How to use the X (Twitter) Character Counter
- Type or paste your post.
- Watch the weighted count against the 280 limit.
- If it’s too long, use the thread preview below.
- Copy each post in the thread.
Example
| Input | Check this out 👀 https://example.com/a-very-long-link |
|---|---|
| Result | 15 + 2 (emoji) + 23 (link) = 40 / 280 |
How X counts characters
X does not simply count letters. This counter follows the same rules for a standard post limit of 280:
- Every link counts as 23 characters, however long it really is.
- Emoji count as 2 characters each.
- Most letters, numbers and punctuation in Latin scripts count as 1.
- Characters in scripts such as Chinese, Japanese and Korean count as 2.
That is why the “Characters (X count)” number can be higher than the plain length of your text. The tool also shows how many links and emoji it found, and how many characters remain.
Splitting a long post into a thread
When your text is over 280, a thread preview appears. The tool splits it into posts at word boundaries, and each one is within the limit. Leave “Number thread posts” on to add numbers such as 1/3, 2/3 and 3/3 at the end of each post. Each post has its own Copy button and a count such as 262 / 280. Longer posts may be available to some paid accounts, so check what your account allows.
Tips for better posts
- Put the main point first. People decide in a second whether to read on.
- Keep a few characters free if you plan to add a link or a mention later.
- Break a long idea into a thread, with a hook in the first post and a clear takeaway in the last.
- Write the text here first so you can see the count before you paste.
Related tools
For other platforms, see the Instagram Character Counter, TikTok Caption Counter and YouTube Title Counter. For hashtags, use the Hashtag Generator, and for general counts the Character Counter.
Frequently asked questions
Why does X count some characters as two?
X weights characters: most Latin letters, numbers and punctuation count as 1, while emojis and characters from languages like Chinese, Japanese and Korean count as 2.
How are links counted?
Every link is shortened by X and counts as 23 characters, no matter how long it is.
What about X Premium?
Premium subscribers can post up to 25,000 characters. The 280 limit applies to standard accounts and to the preview shown in timelines.
Why is the count different from the length of my text?
Links always count as 23 characters, emoji count as 2, and some scripts count double. The counter applies the same rules X uses for the standard limit.
Does the thread splitter cut words in half?
No. It splits between words, so each post stays readable and within the limit.