Written by Muneeb Rana · Last updated 26 October 2026
Quick answer: How fast is my train? Open a GPS speedometer like Speedometer PRO near a window and you will usually see the train's speed within a few seconds. Metal carriages and tunnels can block signals, so readings may drop out. Commuter trains often run below 100 mph, while high-speed lines reach 250 km/h or more.
TL;DR
- Window seat helps a lot.
- Metal bodies weaken GPS.
- Tunnels interrupt readings.
- High-speed rail: 250+ km/h on new lines.
- Just for curiosity; follow staff instructions.
How fast is my train: steps
- Sit near a window.
- Open the app and allow precise location.
- Rest the phone against the window.
- Wait for a fix and read the speed.
Typical train speeds
| Service | Typical top speed |
|---|---|
| Metro/subway | Lower, frequent stops |
| Commuter/regional | Often 60–100 mph |
| Intercity | Up to ~125 mph on some lines |
| High-speed rail | 250–320 km/h and more |
Wikipedia's high-speed rail article lists definitions and examples.
Why signal drops
Carriages act like a partial metal cage, and coated windows can block signals. Cuttings and tunnels add gaps.
Distance and average
Start a trip to see distance and average; see average speed vs max speed.
Battery
Long rides: keep charging; see GPS battery drain.
Typical train speeds
Speeds vary enormously. Commuter trains often run below 100 mph (160 km/h), while high-speed lines are generally defined as allowing 250 km/h (155 mph) or more on new track. Japan's Shinkansen lines run at up to about 320 km/h (199 mph) in regular service. Checking your train's speed on a phone by the window is an easy way to see which kind of line you're on.
Why the reading drops out
Train carriages are metal boxes, and coated windows can block satellite signals. Sit by a window, keep the phone near the glass, and expect gaps in cuttings and tunnels. Speed shown after a gap may lag for a few seconds while the phone reacquires satellites.
Make it a game for kids
Children love seeing the number climb as a train accelerates. Let them hold the phone by the window and record the top speed of the journey in the trip card.
Train speeds around the world
Conventional intercity trains often run around 100–125 mph (160–200 km/h). High-speed lines in Europe and Asia commonly operate at 186–200 mph (300–320 km/h). Don't be surprised if GPS drops out in tunnels or cuttings.
Related
Related: Speedometer use cases · Airplane speed app: measuring ground speed · Speedometer offline: does it need data? · How to measure top speed · Online speedometer: your speed in the browser · Average speed vs max speed · Average walking speed
Get Speedometer PRO on Google Play · Download on the App Store · Set it up before you move; never handle your phone while driving.
Sources
- High-speed rail (Wikipedia): en.wikipedia.org (accessed 26 October 2026)
- GPS Accuracy (GPS.gov): gps.gov (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Urban canyon (Wikipedia): en.wikipedia.org (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Shinkansen (Wikipedia): en.wikipedia.org (accessed 26 October 2026)
FAQ
Can my phone tell how fast a train is going?
Yes, if it can see enough satellites through a window.
Why does speed drop to zero on the train?
Tunnels, cuttings and metal carriages block satellite signals.
How fast do high-speed trains go?
Many run at 250–320 km/h in service, depending on the line.
Does it need mobile data?
No. GPS works offline, though the map may not load.
Is it allowed?
Using a phone as a passenger is normally fine. Follow any rail staff instructions.