How to use the SERP preview
Enter the title and meta description you plan to use, plus the page address. The preview shows how the result is likely to appear in Google, using the same font and widths Google uses. Switch between Desktop and Mobile to check both. Add a keyword to see it in bold in the description, the way Google highlights the words someone searched for.
The bars under the preview show how much space you've used. If the title bar turns red, Google will cut the title off with "..." on desktop.
Why pixels matter more than characters
Google doesn't cut titles at a fixed number of characters. It cuts them when they run out of room, which is about 600 pixels on desktop. Wide letters such as W and M take far more space than narrow ones such as i and l, so a 55-character title in capitals can be cut while a 65-character title in lowercase fits. This tool measures the real width of your text in Arial at 20 pixels, the size Google uses for titles on desktop.
Meta descriptions are usually shown up to about 155 to 160 characters on desktop and a little less on phones. Treat these as guides: Google changes its layout from time to time and sometimes shows more or less.
Tips for snippets that get clicked
- Lead with the topic. Put the main keyword near the start of the title, where it's least likely to be cut.
- Make a promise. Say what the reader gets: a free tool, a checklist, prices, a step-by-step guide.
- Use numbers and the year when they're true. "12 examples" or "2026 guide" stands out in a list of results.
- Keep the brand short. A long site name at the end of every title wastes space; a short brand or none at all is fine.
- Write a unique snippet for each page. Repeated titles and descriptions make it hard for Google and searchers to tell pages apart.
Google may rewrite your snippet
Google sometimes replaces a title or description with other text from the page when it thinks that text answers a search better. Rewrites happen most with titles that are very long, very short, stuffed with keywords or the same across many pages. A clear, accurate snippet that matches the page content is rewritten far less often. When you're ready to publish, generate the full set of tags with the Meta Tag Generator.
Tools for writing snippets
Count the exact length of a draft title or description with the Character Counter. Format titles consistently with the Title Case Converter, or switch between styles with the Case Converter. To check that the page itself has enough content to support the snippet, paste it into the Word Counter.
Frequently asked questions
How long should an SEO title be?
Under about 600 pixels on desktop, which is usually 50 to 60 characters. This tool measures the pixel width so you know exactly when it will be cut off.
How long can a meta description be?
Google usually shows up to about 155 to 160 characters on desktop and fewer on mobile. Longer descriptions are cut with an ellipsis.
Is this exactly what Google will show?
It's a close approximation using Google's fonts and widths. Google may still rewrite titles or descriptions, show dates, or change the layout.
Why is my keyword in bold?
Google bolds words in the description that match the search. Enter a keyword to preview that effect.
Does the title length affect rankings?
Not directly, but a title that's cut off or rewritten can lower clicks. Keeping it within the limit gives you control over what searchers see.
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