The 10 Best Online IQ Tests

The 10 Best Online IQ Tests

Today’s digital world invites us to explore ourselves in countless ways, and online IQ tests offer a glimpse into our cognitive abilities. No longer limited to professional settings, these tests are now widely accessible, promising to reveal your intellectual strengths. But with countless options, finding a reliable and accurate IQ test can be daunting. That’s why we’re here to help.  We’ll help you find the best online IQ tests, guiding you towards platforms that combine scientific rigor with engaging experiences. The top IQ tests offer both reliable results and helpful insights into your cognitive capabilities.

Best IQ Tests in 2024

After thorough investigation and analysis, we have meticulously selected the top seven IQ tests available. These tests distinguish themselves by offering precise results, in-depth analyses, and an exceptional user experience. Ideal for those in pursuit of personal growth, professional development, or intellectual stimulation, here are the most recommended online IQ assessments:

1. Real IQ test:

Real IQ

The Real IQ test, employs a testing methodology focused on precision. Inspired by the recommendations of prominent psychologist Jordan Peterson, this test comprises 100 diverse abstract questions. A distinctive feature is its scoring system, arranged in rank order, leading to a notable correlation of 0.9. This online IQ test distinguishes itself through its well-founded research foundation. Consensus holds that the test’s results align with traditional supervised IQ tests with an impressive accuracy rate of within 1.8%, showcasing a remarkable level of precision compared to earlier iterations of online IQ assessments.

2. Mensa:

Mensa

With national societies in more than 90 countries, it is easy to find a testing center that you can attend for an opportunity to get in round the hallowed table at Mensa. In the US, you can choose to take part in a group proctored testing session, or take a private test – either way, these tests have a financial cost, and you will have to score in the top 2% to be offered membership. The downside to taking the Mensa test is that if you do not hit the lofty heights of that 2%, you don’t actually get to find out your score, which can be disappointing

3 Cognimetrics:

Cognimetrics is a collection of official IQ tests that have been recrafted into a free, online test repository. This website includes the 1980 SAT, and the AGCT test at no cost which offer accurate IQ test scores.

4. IQ Test:

IQ Test

If you’re looking for the best free IQ test, this could be a good option to try. This is a free general IQ test, which includes your score details provided for free. You can pay for a report that describes your performance in 13 key areas of intelligence, which can help reveal key cognitive strengths and weaknesses. According to the site, the test has been created by PhD holders and is statistically sound, with more than 19 million tests taken so far. For those who want to improve, you can also take advantage of IQTuneUps, a program designed to improve your cognitive abilities for a cost.

5. International High IQ Society:

International High IQ Society

As an alternative to Mensa, the International High IQ Society offers membership to individuals who have scored in the top 5% of their IQ test. If you want to join, you will need to take the Culture Fair Intelligence Test, which consists of 25 questions that need to be answered in 30 minutes. The test is designated ‘Culture Fair’ because it does not involve language – the questions are a series of matrices that get increasingly more difficult as you move through the test. Upon completion, you’ll get an official certificate with your score. This test is not free, but you can find free IQ test samples online.

6. Brain Metric:

Brain Metric

If you’re seeking the best free IQ test that is hassle-free too, this is a worthwhile option to consider. This is a really simple, straightforward and importantly free IQ test – you don’t even need to put your email address in to get the results. There are 20 multiple-choice questions, with no time limit. This means that there is a lot less pressure on the test taker, and you don’t need to worry about sharing your personal details (and the risk of overwhelming spam emails, for example).

7 Free IQ Test:

The free IQ test on this site is another one that is simple and easy – although the proliferation of adverts might be off-putting. You’ll only need to share your date of birth to get started, then you will get 20 or so questions for the test. In addition to the free online IQ test, the site also offers many articles and further information about IQ tests, and you’ll also be able to take some practice questions so that you know what to expect.

8. MyIQTested:

This IQ test is not timed, and you will only need to share your date of birth to get started – the scores are normed based on your age. More than one million people have taken the test, according to the website, and aside from the test itself there are plenty of resources about what IQ means and about testing in general. Once you have completed the test, you can access a report that focuses on your perception, memory, creativity, logic, comprehension and other facets of intelligence.

9. IQ Exam:

IQ Exam

10. QuickIQTest:

This is an online IQ test that you can get an instant result from, although you will need to pay to receive it. In this test, you will be asked to complete 22 questions, with a 25-minute time limit. It is browser-based and simple to complete, which is good – but the results are behind a paywall. However, if you are willing to pay the one-off fee, not only will you get your score, but you will also get a printable certificate and a full PDF ‘Intellectual Evaluation and Analysis Report’.

Created by the McGill University Research Team, this IQ test only has 30 questions and no time limit. This is a free IQ test online that evaluates your performance based on non-verbal multiple-choice questions using matrices, and you will receive your score and a basic report for free.

Understanding IQ Tests

An IQ test assesses an individual’s cognitive abilities by comparing their performance with that of a broad and diverse population sample, encompassing various social and economic backgrounds.

Numerous IQ tests, both free and paid, are available today, allowing for the comparison of the Intelligence Quotient of both children and adults with their peers.

People often undergo IQ testing for various reasons, such as seeking membership in prestigious organizations like Mensa, gauging personal cognitive capabilities, or as part of educational assessments for programs aimed at gifted and talented students. In the professional realm, IQ tests might be a part of the hiring process or utilized to tailor learning and development strategies for employees.

The Evolution of IQ Testing

The concept of measuring intelligence dates back to 1884 with Sir Francis Galton, who endeavored to create a standardized test to identify intellectual ability. His method included tests for sensory acuity and reaction times to different stimuli.

Building on Galton’s work, James McKeen Cattell proposed a test in 1890 focused on perceptual speed, though it was later concluded that these metrics did not predict academic success effectively.

The foundation of modern IQ testing was laid by Alfred Binet in the early 20th century, aiming to identify students needing additional support in France’s mandatory schooling system. Binet’s test, introduced in 1905, evaluated knowledge and reasoning, comparing children’s mental development to that of their peers.

William Stern further refined this approach in 1912, coining the term “Intelligence quotient” and introducing a formula to calculate IQ based on the ratio of mental age to chronological age, later scaled by Lewis Terman to be more applicable, especially for children.

David Wechsler addressed the limitations of earlier tests by adapting the scoring system for adults, establishing a normalized average IQ score of 100.

What Do IQ Tests Measure?

The definition of intelligence varies, with recent theories emphasizing the significance of emotional intelligence. Howard Gardner proposed a model of multiple intelligences, suggesting individuals can excel in various areas, potentially influencing their life and career success.

Gardner identified eight types of intelligence:

  • Spatial
  • Bodily-kinesthetic
  • Musical
  • Linguistic
  • Logical-mathematical
  • Interpersonal
  • Intrapersonal
  • Naturalistic

Most IQ tests evaluate a range of cognitive abilities, including:

  • General knowledge
  • Working memory
  • Quantitative reasoning
  • Visual-spatial processing
  • Fluid reasoning
  • Processing speed
  • Verbal comprehension

IQ Score Classifications

While there is a range of IQ tests, each standardized in its own right, they generally adhere to certain score classifications to gauge intelligence levels. However, it’s important to note that comparisons across different tests should be made cautiously due to variations in scoring and results.

  • 130 and above: Very Superior Indicates exceptional intellectual capabilities and potential for high-level problem-solving.
  • 120 to 129: Superior Reflects above-average intelligence, with strong analytical and conceptual thinking abilities.
  • 110 to 119: High Average Demonstrates higher than average cognitive skills, good at complex reasoning tasks.
  • 90 to 109: Average Represents typical intellectual capacity, aligning with the majority of the population.
  • 80 to 89: Low Average Suggests slightly below-average cognitive abilities but usually not significant for daily functioning.
  • 70 to 79: Borderline Indicates potential difficulties with certain cognitive tasks and may require additional support.
  • 69 and below: Intellectual Disability Suggests significant challenges in intellectual functioning and practical life skills.

How to Take a IQ Test

A variety of IQ tests are available, with many accessible online for free. When taking an IQ test online, you simply need a web browser; there’s no need for any downloads since these assessments are typically straightforward and web-based. Most online IQ tests are time-constrained, often lasting no more than 30 minutes, and typically consist of 20 to 30 multiple-choice questions. To respond, participants select the answer they believe is correct by clicking on it. Scoring is usually determined by the number of correct answers, and for untimed tests, the speed of completion may also be considered. For those aiming to join elite intellectual societies like Mensa, a proctored test at an authorized center might be required, which is also computer-based and follows a similar format.