The slope of the function relating response times to the number of stimuli in a visual-search display is extensively utilized to assess theories on a broad range of cognitive functions. Unfortunately, this indicator of search speed is subject to various confounding factors. To overcome this issue, we have recently introduced and the present study validates the systematic search task as a novel technique to measure search speed. In contrast to the traditional manipulation of set size, the systematic search task operates with a constant number of stimuli arranged in a clock-like manner. In this setup, the position of the search target is manipulated. When inducing a reliable clockwise search order, the slope of the function relating response times to the target positions (position slope) is our new measure of search speed. This slope captures all search-related processes, such as the visual processing of each stimulus and perceptual decision making as to whether it is a target or not. By contrast, the intercept reflects activities that are independent of search proper, such as the selection and execution of the motor response. We validate this model through two experiments, manipulating the complexity of stimuli and response formats, respectively. The results confirm our expectations, showing steeper position slopes for more complex stimuli and a higher intercept for more complex responses compared to simple ones. We assert that the systematic search task serves as a valid method for capturing search speed and may prove valuable for future research on visual search and beyond.