A raw character count does not match what X counts, because links are measured at a fixed weight and many wide characters count as two.
X/Twitter Character Counter applies that weighted count against the 280 limit, so the number you see lines up with what the platform would allow.
How to use X/Twitter Character Counter
- Paste your post into the editor.
- Read the weighted count against the 280 limit in the gauge, with the link count shown separately.
- Trim links or wide characters if the weighted count goes over.
Use cases
- Checking a post that includes one or more links.
- Sizing a post that mixes Latin text with wide CJK characters.
- Sizing a launch announcement before scheduling it.
Good to know
Each link is counted at a fixed weight of about 23 characters regardless of its real length, and characters in wide ranges such as CJK count as two. Counting is grapheme-aware. Display rules can change over time, so treat the figure as a close guide rather than an exact platform check.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my link count as more or fewer characters than it looks?
Links are measured at a fixed weight of about 23 characters, so a long URL and a short one weigh the same.
Why do some characters count as two?
Characters in wide ranges, such as many CJK characters, are weighted as two, which matches how the platform counts them.
Is this an official check from X?
No. This tool is independent and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by X Corp or Twitter, so treat the count as a close guide.