Google preview
Why pixels matter more than characters
Google truncates titles and descriptions by width in pixels, not by number of characters. A title full of wide letters like W and M gets cut sooner than one with narrow letters. This preview measures your text with the same font Google uses (Arial) and shows where it would be cut.
- Desktop titles are cut at about 600 pixels (roughly 55 to 60 characters).
- Desktop descriptions are usually cut at about 920 pixels (roughly 150 to 160 characters).
- On mobile the limits are different and descriptions are often shorter.
How to write a title that gets clicks
- Put the main keyword near the start.
- Make a clear promise: what the user gets by clicking.
- Add your brand at the end if there is space.
- Write a unique title for every page.
How to write a good meta description
- Summarize the page in one or two sentences with a benefit and a call to action.
- Include the keyword naturally: Google highlights matching words in bold.
- Keep it under the pixel limit so your message is not cut off.
Google rewrites many descriptions and some titles, especially when they do not match the query. A clear, accurate description that reflects the page is the best way to keep yours.
Frequently asked questions
Does the meta description affect rankings?
Not directly. It affects click-through rate, which is why it is worth writing a good one.
Why does Google show a different title than mine?
Google may rewrite titles that are too long, stuffed with keywords or that do not describe the page well. It often uses the H1 instead.
Is this preview exact?
It is a close estimate. Google changes its layout often, so keep a small safety margin.