As you navigate the college application process, you’ll encounter two major standardized tests: the Digital SAT and the ACT. For decades, students have asked, “Which one should I take?” While there’s no single “better” test, there is a test that’s likely better for you.
Understanding the key differences between the sat test and the ACT is the first step toward choosing the exam where you can best showcase your skills. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
At a Glance: Key Differences
Let’s start with a high-level comparison. While both tests measure college readiness, they do so in different ways.
| Feature | Digital SAT | ACT |
| Total Time | 2 hours 14 minutes | 2 hours 55 minutes |
| Format | Adaptive Digital Test | Traditional Paper & Pencil (or computer) |
| Sections | Reading & Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, Science |
| Science Section | No dedicated Science section | Yes, a full section is dedicated to Science |
| Math Content | More focus on advanced algebra and data analysis. | Broader math scope, including more geometry and some trigonometry. |
| Calculator | Allowed on the entire Math section. | Allowed on the entire Math section. |
| Time Per Question | More time per question. | Less time per question (faster pace). |
A Deeper Dive into the Sections
The real difference between the tests lies in how they structure their questions and what they choose to measure.
Reading and Writing
- Digital SAT: This section features many very short reading passages, each with only one question. This format tests your ability to quickly understand, analyze, and edit a small piece of text without needing to remember a long, complex passage.
- ACT: The Reading and English sections on the ACT use longer passages (4 total in Reading), each followed by about 10 questions. This requires more reading stamina and the ability to track information and ideas throughout a lengthy text.
Who has the edge? If you get fatigued by long reading assignments or prefer to focus on one question at a time, the digital sat test format might be a better fit. If you are a fast reader and good at retaining information from longer texts, you might excel on the ACT.
Math
- Digital SAT: The SAT has one Math section where a calculator is always allowed. It places a heavy emphasis on Algebra and Advanced Math (like quadratic and exponential functions). There are also “student-produced response” questions where you have to type in your own answer.
- ACT: The ACT has one Math section that covers a broader range of topics, with a slightly greater focus on Geometry and Trigonometry than the SAT. All questions are multiple-choice.
Not sure how the new adaptive format works? Learn more in our Complete Guide to the Digital SAT.
Who has the edge? If algebra is your strong suit and you love having a calculator as your trusty sidekick, the SAT might be for you. If you have a solid foundation across all high school math topics, including geometry, the ACT could be a great choice.
The Deciding Factor: The ACT Science Section
This is the biggest structural difference between the two tests.
- The ACT has a dedicated Science section.
- The SAT does not.
It’s important to know that the ACT Science section is not a test of your science knowledge. You don’t need to have memorized facts from biology or chemistry. Instead, it measures your ability to interpret data, read charts and graphs, and analyze conflicting viewpoints from scientific passages. It’s more of a scientific reasoning and data literacy test.
Who has the edge? If you are good at spotting trends in data and quickly understanding graphs and charts, the ACT Science section could significantly boost your score. If the thought of analyzing scientific experiments under pressure sounds stressful, the SAT might be the safer bet.
So, Which Test Should You Take?
Ask yourself these questions:
- How do I handle time pressure? The ACT is a faster-paced test. If you work quickly and confidently, it could be a great fit. If you prefer to think through each question more deliberately, the SAT’s timing may suit you better.
- Am I good at reading charts and graphs? If yes, the ACT Science section is a huge opportunity for you.
- Do I prefer short, focused questions or longer passages? Your answer points directly to whether the SAT’s or ACT’s Reading format is better for you.
- Am I confident in my math skills without a calculator? This used to be a major question, but now both tests allow a calculator for all math problems.
The Best Way to Decide: Take a Practice Test of Each
You can read about the differences all day, but the only way to truly know which test is right for you is to experience them. Taking a full-length practice test for both the Digital SAT and the ACT will give you the most valuable insight. It will show you not only where you score higher but also which test feels better to you.
Your comfort and confidence on test day play a huge role in your performance.
Ready to find out which test is your perfect match? Start by getting a baseline for one of the exams today. The best way to decide is to try them both. Start with our free digital sat practice test to see how you score!
