10 Best IQ Tests to Measure Your Intelligence Level in a Snap

The best IQ tests apply advanced psychometric techniques to measure cognitive development accurately. They can help you discover your brain’s power and learn how to use it on your path to personal and professional growth.

These tests were once confined to clinical and academic settings, but that time is long gone. Thanks to the advancement of technology, many are now only a few clicks away from everyone with an internet connection.

However, with numerous options comes the conundrum of which one to choose. Luckily, you don’t have to wonder and wander through the internet, as we’ve consulted our experts to come up with the list of the best online IQ tests.

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

• The best IQ tests are based on standardized intelligence assessment tools—the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale, WAIS, CFIT, and Raven’s Progressive Matrices.
• Some of the best IQ tests available online include IQTest.net, Real IQ Test, and Reliable IQ Test.
• IQ tests measure general intelligence, also known as the “g-factor,” through a series of verbal and nonverbal tasks.
• IQ testing dates back to the 19th century, but the first IQ test was designed at the beginning of the 20th century.
• An IQ test can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, discover your potential, and plan for your personal growth.

What Is an IQ Test, and How Does It Work?

An IQ test is an assessment tool that measures cognitive development by benchmarking the test taker’s performance against that of their peers. The results are typically expressed in relation to a norm, such as through percentiles or standardized scores.

An IQ level of 100 is considered average intelligence, with scores above and below it reflecting how far a person’s abilities deviate from the average—for example, if you do as well as half of your peer group, you belong to the 50th percentile.

To get an IQ score on the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale, the percentiles are converted into equivalent points ranging from 40 to 160.

As mentioned before, performance equivalent to half of your peers puts you in the 50th percentile, which translates to average intelligence. When we put theory to practice, a person in the 50th percentile has an IQ level of 100, also known as average intelligence.

However, it’s noteworthy that there are many different IQ test types. While most of them use comparable methodologies, not all deliver the same results.

That said, six IQ tests are especially widely used and regarded as the most accurate and, thus, the best IQ tests in the world. The Stanford-Binet scale is one of them, and these are the remaining five:

• Cattell Culture Fair Intelligence Test excludes verbal tasks and focuses on visual puzzles such as mazes and drawing sequences, making it applicable across cultures.
• Differential Ability Scales is considered one of the best IQ tests for kids, as it was exclusively developed for children aged two through seventeen.
• Raven’s Progressive Matrices is another nonverbal IQ—it measures the ability to recognize patterns and retain and replicate information.
• Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, as hinted by the name, is one of the best IQ tests for adults. It measures core cognitive skills, including deduction, logical reasoning, memory, and pattern recognition.
• Woodcock-Johnson Cognitive Ability Test is actually a series of tests designed for a wide age range—from the age of two to late adulthood.

What Do IQ Tests Measure?

IQ tests measure general intelligence, also known as the “g-factor.” The concept was introduced in the early 20th century by psychometrician Charles Edward Spearman, who noticed a positive correlation among cognitive abilities. Simply put, he observed that people who excel in one type of cognitive task, like solving math problems, often do well in others, too.

Spearman then explained this positive correlation by proposing the g-factor—the overall mental capacity responsible for performance on cognitive ability tests.

Now, let’s see which cognitive abilities fall under general intelligence:

• Logical-mathematical intelligence
• Verbal-linguistic intelligence
• Working memory
• Processing speed
• Reasoning abilities
• Visual-spatial intelligence

It’s worth mentioning that Spearman wasn’t the only one to define general intelligence, though he was the first. Namely, in the mid-1900s, psychologist Raymond Cattell, while developing the Culture Fair Intelligence Test, proposed the following two components of general intelligence:

• Fluid intelligence, or the mental capacity we were born with. It includes problem-solving skills, logical and critical reasoning, abstract thinking, information processing, and adaptability.
• Crystalized intelligence, influenced by cultural and societal factors. It taps into knowledge, expertise, and skills acquired through learning, education, and experience.

Top 10 Best IQ Tests You Can Take Online

Taking a standardized IQ test is a surefire way to measure your intelligence level. However, these tests can be expensive and less accessible than their online counterparts.

Without further ado, let’s begin the countdown of the best IQ tests you can take on the internet:

#1. IQTest.net

IQTest.net is a free IQ test designed by experienced psychometricians and approved by top experts in the field. Therefore, you can rest assured it’s not merely a fun brain exercise but a legitimate intelligence assessment method. As such, it deserves to be featured on the list of the best IQ tests.

This test comprises 20 multiple-choice questions designed to measure different cognitive abilities, including pattern recognition, problem-solving, and analytical skills. It has a 20-minute time limit, and your score depends on both the time it takes you to complete it and the accuracy of your answers.

When you finish, you won’t have to wait for the results to be processed and mailed to you. Instead, they’ll appear on your screen a few seconds after you’ve answered the final question.

Another big perk of IQTest.net is the IQ test certification. Namely, if you’re happy with your results and want to save them, you can request an electronic certificate.

Additionally, the platform offers memory games for IQ-boosting as well as a detailed analysis of your score upon taking the test.

#2. Real IQ Test

As hinted by its name, the Real IQ Test is another psychologist-approved online IQ test. It evaluates spatial reasoning, pattern recognition, logical reasoning, and data sorting. There are 30 multiple-choice questions that get progressively more challenging as you go, and you need to answer them in up to 45 minutes.

The test guarantees accuracy as well as complete privacy and ownership of results. Additionally, the platform shows how many people have taken the test so far and their average IQ score. There’s even a list of celebrity IQs so that you can see how you measure up.

#3. Reliable IQ Test

Reliable IQ Test, as the name suggests, prides itself on credibility and validity. Devised by psychology experts, this test offers an in-depth evaluation of cognitive abilities, such as memory, reasoning, and problem-solving.

A notable aspect of this assessment tool is the feedback that comes with the results, offering insight into strengths and areas for improvement.

Additionally, there are user testimonials available on the platform, so you can read about your peers’ experiences with the test before you try it yourself.

#4. IQ Certificate

IQ Certificate essentially offers the Cattell Culture Fair Intelligence Test, which qualifies it for a place on the list of the best IQ tests on the internet. It features a test for adults with a 30-minute time limit and one for children, lasting up to 45 minutes.

In addition to a user-friendly experience, the platform offers a personalized IQ certificate, hence the name. It also highlights logical thinking, spatial reasoning, and pattern recognition, making it a useful intelligence assessment tool applicable across cultures.

#5. Quick IQ Test

The Quick IQ Test offers a fast and easy way to measure your intelligence online. It features a series of 15 questions with pictures aimed at assessing problem-solving and logical reasoning skills.

The platform has a simple interface, and the results are available right away—no waiting or processing delays. It also offers comprehensive feedback, highlighting your strengths and suggesting areas to work on.

Given its simplicity, this test is a perfect option if you want a fun mental challenge and quick results.

#6. Official IQ Test

The Official IQ Test, developed by leading psychologists, provides an all-encompassing intelligence assessment experience. It comprises 30 questions, each with a single correct answer, designed to evaluate linguistic proficiency, logical reasoning, and visual-spatial abilities.

This test offers instant results upon completion and an IQ certificate. However, those aren’t its most outstanding features. Namely, along with your results, you’ll get a full IQ report detailing your individual capabilities, including whether you’re right-brained (analytical and logical) or left-brained (creative and intuitive).

#7. Accurate IQ Test

The Accurate IQ Test platform provides IQ testing for both children and adults. The assessment tools are based on Raymond Cattel’s Culture Fair Intelligence Test, thus measuring raw mental potential.

Simply put, these tests focus on innate cognitive capabilities, also known as fluid intelligence. As such, they’re the perfect tools for you or your child to gauge the intellectual capacities you were born with.

This platform also offers IQ reports and certificates, as well as a peek into celebrities’ IQ scores.

#8. Actual IQ Test

The Actual IQ Test features culturally unbiased questions designed to accurately measure your IQ in 30 minutes or less. Once you complete the test, you can receive a personalized certificate, whether you want it for personal satisfaction or professional purposes.

Additionally, it offers access to an advanced training document you can use to boost your mental potential over time.

It’s noteworthy that the platform is regularly updated to provide the most reliable international IQ testing experience.

#9. Legitimate IQ Test

The Legitimate IQ Test is based on scientifically proven intelligence assessment methods to provide the most accurate results. The platform is easy to navigate, making the experience not only reliable but also enjoyable and user-friendly.

This test consists of 30 questions and will reveal your IQ score in 45 minutes or less, ensuring complete confidentiality. However, if you wish, you can download a personalized certificate with your results for personal or professional use.

#10. IQ Exam

The final entry on the list of the best IQ tests, the IQ Exam, offers a quick and reliable way to assess your cognitive abilities. Designed to measure logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and problem-solving, it provides an accurate snapshot of your IQ score.

The test is free and user-friendly, with results delivered instantly upon completion. Additionally, if you seek official recognition, the website offers a downloadable certificate showcasing your score. That said, your results won’t be shared anywhere, as the IQ Exam guarantees privacy and confidentiality.

How Were IQ Tests Developed?

The development of IQ tests began in the 19th century when interest in intelligence started catching on.

In fact, it goes all the way back to Francis Galton, a British anthropologist regarded as the father of psychometrics. He was the first to take on the challenge of measuring differences in intelligence and personality traits.

Inspired by his cousin, Charles Darwin, and his classification of plants and animals, Galton wrote Hereditary Genius in 1869. In this book, he theorized the hereditary nature of intelligence—an idea that’s since gained traction and remains a cornerstone in modern psychology.

While Galton’s eugenic ideology may be questionable, generations of scientists stand on his shoulders. For example, James McKeen Cattell, directly influenced by Galton, developed a series of mental tests that later served as the basis for modern IQ tests.

Another scientist inspired by Galton was the father of IQ testing—Alfred Binet. In fact, he was so curious about Galton’s research that he abandoned the idea of pursuing a law career in favor of doing his own experiments.

This turn of events led him to create the first IQ test in 1905 to identify the children who needed more help with their schoolwork than their peers.

How to Take an IQ Test

Taking an IQ test is simpler than you may think; however, there are still some steps you should take to ensure the most accurate results.

First and foremost, find a reliable test. One of the six widely accepted ones is an excellent choice, but you can also find a valid test online. IQTest.net is a great example, as it uses the same advanced psychometric techniques as standardized IQ tests. On top of that, it’s free and available for retaking so that you can track your progress over time.

Before starting, make sure you have peace and quiet to concentrate. IQ tests usually have time limits, so interruptions and distractions could throw you off your game. Additionally, get a good night’s sleep and stay hydrated—your brain works best when you feel rested and fresh.

During the test, you’ll face a mix of questions designed to assess different skills, like logical reasoning, problem-solving, and pattern recognition. For example, you may need to complete sequences of numbers or figures, answer questions involving shapes and patterns, or solve logic-based word problems.

Don’t overthink—the simplest or most obvious answer could be the right one. However, if you’re stuck, move on and circle back if you have time.

Finally, relax and remember that it’s not about the score but understanding how your mind works.

Why Should You Take an IQ Test?

Now that you know where and how to take an IQ test, you may be wondering—why take one at all? Let’s break the answer down into three reasons:

• You’ll understand your strengths and weaknesses better. An IQ test highlights the areas where you excel and those you may want to improve. For instance, you might be a savvy problem solver, but your verbal skills could use some polishing. Knowing where you stand will help you play to your strengths while working on your weaknesses.
• You may discover your potential. An IQ test can give you a confidence boost by revealing abilities you may not have recognized. This can motivate you to go after your goals, especially the more challenging ones, knowing you have the brainpower to back you up.
• It can help you plan your personal growth. An IQ test can be a powerful tool for self-improvement. Namely, by identifying your cognitive profile, you can focus on skills, hobbies, or careers that align with your natural talents. Plus, the process of preparing for the test and taking it can sharpen your focus and critical thinking skills.

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Final Thoughts

The best IQ tests adapt principles from early standardized IQ tests, including the Stanford-Binet and Wechsler Adult Intelligence scales.

In this day and age, such assessment tools are available online so that you can measure your cognitive development in the comfort of your home.

The process is quick and simple, and the benefits are numerous—by learning your strong and weak points, you’ll know what to leverage and what to work on. As a result, you may get the motivation to pursue your goals and the clarity on which ones align with your abilities.