Online timer - countdown timer with alarm
Set a countdown for anything from one minute to several hours, pick an alarm sound and hear it the moment the time runs out. The timer keeps running in the background, so you can switch tabs while it counts down, and it works on desktop, tablet and phone with no install and no sign-up.
How to use the countdown timer
- 01
Pick a preset (1, 3, 5, 10, 15, 30 or 60 minutes) or click the digits to type your own time.
- 02
Press Start, or just hit the space bar. Press it again to pause and resume.
- 03
Add a minute mid-run with +1:00, and use Reset to return to your original time.
Frequently asked questions
Does the timer keep running if I switch tabs?
Yes. The countdown is based on real clock time, so it stays accurate in a background tab. On a computer the alarm rings on time. A phone pauses pages in the background, so keep this page on screen there; if the time runs out while the page is paused, the page shows when it ended, without a sound.
Can I use the timer without an account?
Every tool here is free and works without signing in. An account syncs your saved timers, alarms, world clock cities and settings, such as your sound and theme, between devices.
What sound plays when the time is up?
A soft bell by default. You can pick a different tone.
Is there a full-screen mode?
Yes, full screen hides everything except the digits, which is useful for classrooms, workshops and presentations.