Search and ads
Meta description length
Keep your meta description to about 150 to 160 characters. Google does not enforce a limit, but it cuts longer descriptions off in search results.
Visible length: On mobile, Google often shows only about the first 120 characters.
Meta description character counter
Paste your text to check it against the 160 character guideline. It runs in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.
Good to know
Meta description facts
- Meta descriptions are not a ranking factor, but a good one raises the click-through rate.
- Google often replaces your description with text from the page that better matches the search.
Tips
Writing a better Meta description
- Include the main keyword. Google bolds words that match the search.
- Write it like an ad: say what the page offers and why to click.
FAQ
Meta description: common questions
What is the Meta description character limit?+
Keep your meta description to about 150 to 160 characters. Google does not enforce a limit, but it cuts longer descriptions off in search results.
Do spaces and emojis count toward the Meta description limit?+
Yes. Spaces, punctuation, line breaks and emojis all count. The counter on this page counts each emoji as one character.
What happens if a Meta description is over 160 characters?+
Nothing breaks, but Google cuts long descriptions off with an ellipsis, so the end of your message may never be seen.
How much of a Meta description is visible?+
On mobile, Google often shows only about the first 120 characters.
Limits last checked October 2026. Platforms change them from time to time, so check the Google editor if a number looks off.
Other character limits
Counting words instead? Use the Word and Character Counter or see how many pages any word count fills.