Reverse tempo calculation
Calculate BPM from a note duration
State which note and rhythm the measured milliseconds represent, then solve the corresponding quarter-note tempo.
Reverse formula and examples
How to convert milliseconds to BPM
BPM = 60,000 × note multiplier × rhythm multiplier ÷ duration in milliseconds.
For a straight quarter note lasting 500 ms: 60,000 × 1 ÷ 500 = 120 BPM. Likewise, 400 ms = 150 BPM and 600 ms = 100 BPM.
Choose what the measured duration represents
The same 250 ms can be a straight eighth note at 120 BPM or a straight quarter note at 240 BPM. Select the note value and straight, dotted, or triplet rhythm before solving the quarter-note tempo.
This converts musical note duration to constant musical tempo only. It must not be used to interpret pulse, heart rate, medical measurements, or a person’s health; it does not inspect audio or account for swing and tempo maps.
Exact local timing