Online timer
How to use the timer
- Type the hours, minutes and seconds, or tap a quick-start button.
- Press Start. The bar shows how much time is left, and so does the tab title.
- When time is up you'll hear a beep and the numbers flash. Press Start again to repeat the same time.
Keyboard: Space starts and pauses, R resets. Full screen makes the countdown readable from across a room, which is useful for classrooms, meetings and workouts. While the timer runs, supported browsers keep your screen awake.
Timers for common tasks
Each of these opens a timer that is already set, so you can bookmark the one you use most.
For focused work, try the Pomodoro timer, which alternates 25 minutes of work with short breaks. For exercise, the interval timer repeats work and rest rounds. To count down to a date rather than a length of time, use the countdown timer. To time something with no fixed end, use the stopwatch.
Frequently asked questions
Will the timer keep going if I switch tabs?
Yes. The timer counts down to a fixed end time and the alarm is scheduled in advance, so it stays accurate in a background tab. Closing the tab or the browser stops it.
Why can't I hear the alarm?
Check that your device volume is up and the tab is not muted. On an iPhone, the silent switch can mute browser sounds. The numbers also flash and the tab title changes when time is up.
Can I share a timer?
Yes. Add ?t= and a number of seconds to the address. For example, datetime.uk/timer/?t=600 opens a 10-minute timer.
What is the longest timer I can set?
99 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. For anything longer, a countdown to a date is more practical.