Free browser-based timer

Online Timer

A countdown timer with alarm — set any time or tap a preset, pause and resume, and keep an eye on the remaining time right in the browser tab.

05:00

How the timer works

The countdown is anchored to the clock, not to counted ticks — so it stays exact even when the browser throttles background tabs. At zero it plays an alarm tone and flashes the display; the remaining time is mirrored in the tab title the whole way down.

1

Set the time

Type hours, minutes and seconds, or tap a preset like 10 minutes or the 25-minute Pomodoro.

2

Start and switch tabs

The tab title counts down with you, so the timer stays visible while you work elsewhere.

3

Pause or reset anytime

Start turns into Pause while running; Reset returns to your set time for the next round.

Timeboxing: why a visible countdown helps

A running timer changes how work feels: an open-ended task invites drifting, while a 25-minute box gives it an edge to push against — that's the whole trick behind the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focus, 5 of break, longer break every four rounds). The same applies in the kitchen, in workouts, in meetings that tend to overrun, and in "just 10 minutes of tidying". Set the box, start it, and let the alarm make the decision to stop for you.

Frequently asked questions

Does the timer keep running in a background tab?

Yes — the remaining time is computed from the clock, not from counting ticks, so it stays accurate even when the browser slows down background tabs. The tab title shows the remaining time so you can see it from another tab.

Why is there no sound when the timer ends?

Browsers only allow sound after you've interacted with the page — clicking Start counts, so normally the alarm just works. If your device is muted or the tab's sound is blocked, the finished timer still flashes visibly.

What is the Pomodoro technique?

A focus method: work in 25-minute blocks separated by 5-minute breaks, with a longer break every four blocks. The 25 and 5 minute presets cover a full Pomodoro cycle.

Can I set a timer for hours?

Yes — the hours field goes up to 23, so anything from one second to just under 24 hours works.