Twitter / X Character Counter
Count characters for Twitter/X posts, DMs, bio, and display name. Stay within the 280-character tweet limit with our real-time Twitter character counter.
Table of Contents
Twitter/X Character Limits Overview
Twitter (now X) is known for its concise format with the iconic 280-character limit for tweets. Understanding these limits is crucial for effective Twitter marketing and engagement. Twitter Premium subscribers get access to longer tweets, but the standard 280-character limit remains the norm for most users.
Character Limits for Tweets and Messages
Twitter has specific character limits for different types of content to maintain its fast-paced, concise communication style.
Tweets (280 characters)
Standard Twitter accounts can post tweets up to 280 characters long. This is double the original 140-character limit. Twitter Premium subscribers can post tweets up to 25,000 characters, but most users see and interact with the 280-character format.
Direct Messages (10,000 characters)
Twitter DMs allow up to 10,000 characters, giving you much more space for private conversations. This generous limit makes DMs suitable for detailed discussions and customer service interactions.
Link Character Count
Links on Twitter count as 23 characters regardless of their actual length, thanks to Twitter's link shortener (t.co). This applies to both http and https links.
Character Limits for Twitter Profile
Your Twitter profile has specific character limits for each element, designed to keep profiles scannable and concise.
Username (15 characters)
Your Twitter username (handle) is limited to 15 characters and must be unique across the platform. Choose wisely, as your username is how people mention and find you on Twitter.
Display Name (50 characters)
Your display name can be up to 50 characters and doesn't need to be unique. This is what appears prominently on your profile and in tweets. Many users include emojis or extra information here.
Bio (160 characters)
Twitter bios are limited to 160 characters. This is your elevator pitch on Twitter—make it count. Include relevant keywords, your value proposition, and optionally a call-to-action or link.
Other Twitter Character Limits
Twitter has additional character limits for lists and other features.
List Name (25 characters)
Twitter list names are limited to 25 characters. Choose concise, descriptive names that clearly indicate what the list contains.
List Description (100 characters)
List descriptions can be up to 100 characters. Use this space to explain the purpose of your list and what type of accounts it includes.
Best Practices for Twitter Character Limits
Maximize your Twitter impact within the 280-character limit with these proven strategies.
Leave Room for Retweets
Keep tweets under 258 characters to leave room for retweets with comments. This makes it easier for others to share your content with their own commentary.
Front-Load Important Information
Put your key message at the beginning of your tweet. While all 280 characters are visible, people often skim, so make sure your main point is upfront.
Use Thread for Long-Form Content
If you need more than 280 characters, create a thread. Threads perform well on Twitter and allow you to break down complex topics into digestible pieces.
Optimize Your Bio
With only 160 characters for your bio, focus on clarity over cleverness. Include relevant keywords, what you do, and what value you provide to visitors.
Twitter / X Character Limits Reference
Complete reference of all character limits for Twitter / X:
| Field Type | Character Limit | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Post (Tweet) | 280 | Premium users: up to 25,000 characters |
| DM Message | 10,000 | Stay within limit for best results |
| Username | 15 | Letters, numbers, underscores only |
| Display Name | 50 | Stay within limit for best results |
| Bio | 160 | Emojis count as 2 characters |
| List Name | 25 | Stay within limit for best results |
| List Description | 100 | Stay within limit for best results |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Twitter character limit?
Standard Twitter/X posts (tweets) are limited to 280 characters. This includes all text, spaces, and punctuation. Twitter Premium subscribers can post tweets up to 25,000 characters, but the standard limit remains 280 for most users.
How many characters is a Twitter username?
Twitter usernames (handles) can be up to 15 characters long. Your username must be unique across Twitter and can only contain letters, numbers, and underscores. Choose carefully, as your username is how people mention you.
What is the Twitter bio character limit?
Twitter bios are limited to 160 characters. This includes all text, spaces, emojis, and special characters. Use this space wisely to communicate who you are and what value you provide to your audience.
How many characters can a Twitter DM be?
Twitter Direct Messages can be up to 10,000 characters long, giving you significantly more space than tweets for private conversations and detailed discussions.
Do links count as characters on Twitter?
Yes, but links count as 23 characters on Twitter regardless of their actual length. Twitter automatically shortens all links using its t.co URL shortener, and each link counts as 23 characters in your tweet.
Does Twitter count spaces as characters?
Yes, Twitter counts spaces, punctuation, and emojis as characters. Every keystroke contributes to your 280-character limit, so be mindful of spacing.
What happens if I exceed the Twitter character limit?
If you exceed Twitter's 280-character limit, you won't be able to post your tweet. Twitter will prevent you from tweeting until you reduce your text to fit within 280 characters. You'll need to edit your tweet or split it into a thread.
How do I count characters for Twitter?
Use our free Twitter character counter tool to instantly see how many characters you're using. Simply type or paste your tweet, and the counter updates in real-time, showing you exactly how many characters you have left.
Can I post longer content on Twitter?
Yes, you can post longer content on Twitter by creating a thread (multiple connected tweets) or by subscribing to Twitter Premium, which allows tweets up to 25,000 characters. However, threads remain the most common way to share longer content.
What is the ideal tweet length for engagement?
Studies show that tweets between 71-100 characters tend to get the highest engagement. While you have 280 characters available, shorter tweets are often more impactful and easier to retweet with comments.