Doherty Threshold: Faster is Better (Up to a Point!)

Ever notice how some websites or apps just feel fast and that makes them more enjoyable to use? That’s no accident. There’s a psychological principle behind it called the Doherty Threshold.

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What is the Doherty Threshold?

The Doherty Threshold is the idea that users feel more satisfied and productive when a computer or device responds to their actions within 400 milliseconds less than half a second. If things take longer than that, our brains start to wander, and we get frustrated or bored.

The rule was discovered back in the 1980s by two researchers, Walter J. Doherty and Arvind J. Thadani, and it’s still used in modern design and technology today.

Why does this matter?

Humans like momentum. When we’re clicking, scrolling, or typing, we want instant feedback. If a system responds quickly, we feel like we’re in control. If it lags, we start to lose patience and sometimes we even abandon the task.

So, keeping things moving fast (but not too fast) makes the whole experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Real-life examples

• Typing on your phone: If letters appear on-screen the moment you tap them, you keep typing confidently. If there’s a delay, it feels broken even if it's just half a second.
  

• Tapping an app: Ever tapped an app and nothing happened for a moment? You probably tapped it again, thinking the first try didn’t work. That’s the Doherty Threshold in action waiting too long breaks the flow.
  

• Loading animations: When something has to take longer than 400ms, clever apps show spinners, progress bars, or tiny animations. These tricks help keep your brain engaged so the wait doesn’t feel as bad.
  

But what if it’s too fast?

That’s where the "up to a point" part comes in. If something is so fast that it doesn’t give you time to see what’s happening like a disappearing message or an instant switch with no transition it can feel jarring or confusing.

Designers aim for a balance: fast enough to feel smooth, but not so fast you lose track.

The takeaway

The Doherty Threshold reminds us that speed matters but in a thoughtful way. Good technology responds quickly enough to keep you in the flow, but also clearly enough that you understand what’s happening.

So next time you notice an app that just “feels right,” chances are it’s hitting that sweet spot of speed.