5 Minute Timer
A free 5 minute timer with a loud alarm. Start it with one click, pause, go full screen and keep it running in a background tab. No app or sign-up.
Press Space to start or pause. The timer keeps time in a background tab and beeps when it ends.
When to use a 5 minute timer
Five minutes is the classic length for brewing tea, soft-boiling eggs, a short break between work sessions or a quick classroom transition. It's also popular for timed speaking practice, brainstorming bursts and the 'just start for five minutes' trick for getting going on a task you've been avoiding.
How to use it
- 1
Press Start
The 5 minute countdown starts at once. Press the Space bar to pause or resume.
- 2
Keep working
Switch tabs or apps if you like. The time left shows in the tab title.
- 3
Hear the alarm
The timer beeps when it reaches zero. Press Reset to run it again, or pick another length.
Frequently asked questions
Will the timer ring if I switch tabs?
Yes. The 5 minute timer keeps exact time from your device's clock, so it stays accurate in a background tab and beeps when it reaches zero. The remaining time also shows in the tab title.
Why didn't I hear the alarm?
Check that your device isn't muted and the volume is up. On iPhone, the ring/silent switch can also silence web pages.
Can I pause and resume?
Yes. Press Pause (or the Space bar) and Resume to carry on from where you stopped. Reset starts the countdown again from the full length.
Can I show it on a big screen?
Press Full screen to fill the screen with the countdown, which works well on a classroom projector or a TV.