Meta Description Length Checker
Check your meta description length with live character count and Google SERP preview. Optimize for 155-160 characters to ensure your descriptions display perfectly in search results without truncation.
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160 character optimal limit
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Your Page Title - Brand Name
Enter your meta description above to see how it will appear in Google search results...
Meta Description Analysis
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SEO Analysis & Recommendations
Meta Description Length Guidelines
| Length Range | Status | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120-155 chars | Optimal | Perfect length for most search results | Ideal range - no truncation expected |
| 155-160 chars | Good | May be truncated on some devices | Generally safe, monitor for truncation |
| 160+ chars | Too Long | Likely to be truncated in search results | Shorten to avoid cutting off important info |
| Under 120 chars | Short | Missing opportunity for more detail | Consider adding more compelling details |
Meta Description Best Practices
Writing Tips
- Include target keywords: Use primary keywords naturally
- Write compelling copy: Encourage clicks with benefits
- Match search intent: Align with what users are looking for
- Use active voice: Make it engaging and actionable
Technical Guidelines
- Unique descriptions: Each page needs its own meta description
- Avoid keyword stuffing: Write for humans, not just search engines
- Include a call-to-action: "Learn more," "Get started," etc.
- Test on mobile: Check how it appears on smaller screens
Meta Description FAQ
The ideal meta description length is 120-155 characters. This ensures your description displays fully in Google search results without being truncated. While Google sometimes shows longer descriptions (up to 160 characters), staying within 155 characters is the safest approach for consistent display across all devices and search result formats.
Google uses pixel width rather than character count to determine when to truncate meta descriptions. The approximate limit is 920 pixels for desktop and 680 pixels for mobile. However, since pixel width varies by character (e.g., "W" is wider than "i"), using character count (155-160 characters) is a practical guideline that works well in most cases.
If your meta description exceeds the character limit, Google will truncate it with an ellipsis (...). This can cut off important information or calls-to-action, potentially reducing click-through rates. It's better to keep your most important information and compelling elements within the first 155 characters to ensure they're always visible.
While you can leave meta descriptions empty, it's not recommended. When no meta description is provided, Google will automatically generate one from your page content, which may not be as compelling or relevant as a carefully crafted description. Writing your own meta descriptions gives you control over how your pages appear in search results and can improve click-through rates.
Meta descriptions don't directly affect SEO rankings, but they significantly impact click-through rates (CTR) from search results. A compelling meta description can increase CTR, which may indirectly influence rankings as Google considers user engagement signals. Well-written meta descriptions help users understand what your page offers, leading to more qualified traffic and better user experience.
Yes, include relevant keywords in your meta descriptions, but do so naturally. Google bolds matching keywords in search results, which can make your listing more eye-catching. However, avoid keyword stuffing - focus on writing compelling, readable copy that includes your target keywords in a natural way. The primary goal is to encourage clicks, not just include keywords.