Countdown Timer
Set a countdown timer for any duration with audio alerts when time expires. Perfect for cooking, workouts, meetings, study sessions, and productivity techniques like Pomodoro.
Countdown Timer
Set a countdown timer with customizable duration and audio alerts.
Quick Timer Presets
Select a common timer duration to get started quickly.
How to Use the Countdown Timer
Setting the Timer
- • Enter minutes and seconds manually
- • Or select a preset duration
- • Click Start to begin countdown
- • Add time while running if needed
Timer Controls
- • Start: Begin or resume countdown
- • Pause: Temporarily stop timer
- • Stop: End timer and clear time
- • Reset: Clear all settings
How to Use the Countdown Timer
- Set Duration: Enter minutes and seconds or choose a preset
- Start Timer: Click Start to begin the countdown
- Monitor Progress: Watch the time decrease and progress bar fill
- Get Notified: Hear audio alert when timer reaches zero
- Control Timer: Pause, stop, or add time as needed
Timer Features
Customizable Duration
Set any timer duration from seconds to hours. Enter exact minutes and seconds for precise timing, or use quick presets for common durations.
Visual Progress Indicator
The progress bar shows how much time has elapsed and how much remains. The display changes color when the timer finishes to provide clear visual feedback.
Audio Alerts
When the timer reaches zero, an audio alert plays automatically to notify you. The alert repeats several times to ensure you don't miss it.
Add Time While Running
Need more time? Add 1, 5, or 10 minutes to a running timer without stopping it. Perfect for when you need just a bit more time to finish your task.
Common Use Cases
Cooking and Baking
- Meal Preparation: Time cooking stages and processes
- Baking: Track rising times and baking duration
- Marinating: Time marinades and flavor development
- Tea and Coffee: Steep for the perfect brewing time
Fitness and Exercise
- Workout Intervals: Time exercise and rest periods
- Yoga Sessions: Hold poses for specific durations
- Cardio Training: Track running or cycling intervals
- Strength Training: Time rest periods between sets
Work and Productivity
- Pomodoro Technique: 25-minute focused work sessions
- Meeting Time: Keep meetings within time limits
- Break Reminders: Schedule regular breaks
- Presentation Practice: Time speeches and presentations
Study and Learning
- Study Sessions: Focus periods with planned breaks
- Test Practice: Simulate exam time conditions
- Reading Goals: Set reading time targets
- Memory Exercises: Time recall and review sessions
Productivity Techniques
Pomodoro Technique
Use the 25-minute preset for classic Pomodoro sessions. Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After 4 sessions, take a longer 15-30 minute break.
Time Boxing
Allocate specific time blocks for different tasks. Set a timer for each task to maintain focus and prevent tasks from expanding beyond their allocated time.
The 52-17 Rule
Based on DeskTime research, work for 52 minutes then take a 17-minute break. This ratio has been shown to maximize productivity for high performers.
Ultradian Rhythms
Work in 90-minute cycles followed by 20-minute breaks. This aligns with natural energy cycles and can help maintain sustained focus throughout the day.
Timer Best Practices
Setting Realistic Times
- Start with shorter durations and gradually increase
- Consider your energy levels and attention span
- Account for setup and cleanup time in your estimates
- Build in small buffers for unexpected delays
Minimizing Distractions
- Keep the timer tab open and visible
- Turn off non-essential notifications during timer sessions
- Prepare everything you need before starting the timer
- Use the timer as a commitment device to stay focused
Timer Hygiene
- Always take breaks when the timer indicates
- Don't extend sessions too frequently
- Use break time for actual rest, not more work
- Adjust timer durations based on what works for you
Browser Considerations
Audio Permissions
Some browsers may require permission to play audio. If you don't hear the alert, check your browser's audio settings and ensure the page has permission to play sounds.
Background Operation
The timer continues running when you switch tabs or minimize the browser, but audio alerts may be affected by browser audio policies. For best results, keep the timer tab active.
System Sleep
If your computer goes to sleep, the timer will pause and resume when the system wakes up. For long timers, adjust your system's sleep settings or use a physical timer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the timer work if I close the browser tab?
No, the timer requires the browser tab to remain open to function. Closing the tab will stop the timer. Keep the tab open or bookmark it for quick access.
Can I set a timer for more than 24 hours?
Yes, you can set timers for multiple hours or even days, though this is intended for shorter durations. For very long timers, consider using calendar reminders or dedicated long-term timer applications.
Why didn't I hear the audio alert?
Browser audio policies may block automatic audio playback. Check that your browser allows audio from this site, ensure your system volume is up, and verify that the page has interacted with before the timer finishes.
Can I customize the audio alert sound?
Currently, the timer uses a standard beep sound. Future versions may include customizable alert sounds. You can also set up your own system notifications or alarms as backup reminders.
Does the timer drain my device's battery?
The timer uses minimal system resources and shouldn't significantly impact battery life. However, keeping the screen on continuously will use more power than normal browsing.
Can I run multiple timers simultaneously?
This tool runs one timer at a time. To run multiple timers, open the tool in separate browser tabs or windows. Each tab will operate independently.