How the F1 start works
In a Formula 1 start, five pairs of red lights come on one second apart. After a random pause they all go out at once, and that is the signal to go. The random pause stops drivers from guessing the timing. This test works the same way: the wait after the fifth light changes every time.
How fast are F1 drivers?
F1 drivers are often quoted at about 200 ms from lights out to moving the car, and the very best starts are a little quicker. Keep in mind that a driver reacts to lights on the gantry, while your time here also includes your screen and mouse. A score of 200 to 250 ms on this test is very good.
Why your score includes your hardware
The time you see is your reaction plus the delay of your setup. A 60 Hz screen can show the signal up to 16 ms late, a wireless mouse may add a few milliseconds, and some TVs in picture mode add 50 ms or more. For your best score use a wired mouse, a high refresh monitor if you have one, and close other heavy apps. Test the screen with the refresh rate test and the mouse with the polling rate test.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions people ask most about this test.
What is a good F1 reaction time?
Under 250 ms on this test is very good, and under 200 ms is exceptional. F1 drivers are often quoted at around 200 ms.
What happens if I click too early?
It counts as a jump start and the try is not recorded. Click again to restart the lights.
Why is the pause after the last light random?
So you cannot learn the rhythm and guess. Real F1 starts use a random delay for the same reason.