Stay on track with our free chess timer. It’s easy to use and perfect for quick, focused matches.

How Chess Timer Works?

Each player starts with a preset time on the clock. When the game begins, only the active player’s time counts down. After making a move, the player switches the timer to the opponent, pausing their own countdown. If someone’s clock reaches zero, they lose on time. Many timers (including this one) offer features like increments (extra seconds added after each move) or delays (time before the countdown starts) to keep things balanced. Simply use the Start/Pause button to control the clock, Switch Turns to alternate players, and Reset for a fresh match. Customize settings as needed to match your preferred gameplay style.

Start/Pause

Begins or halts the active player’s countdown. Press once to start the clock, and press again to pause the timer.

Switch Turns

Transfers the countdown from one player to the other. Use this immediately after making a move.

Reset

Returns both clocks to the initial time setting. Ideal for starting a new match or practice session.

Settings

Opens a menu to customize the timer. Adjust total minutes, add bonus time, or set other preferences.

Fullscreen

Displays the chess clock on the entire screen for better visibility during gameplay.

Chess Timing Methods

Different timing methods let you control how extra seconds or delays are applied. Here are three popular approaches:

1. Bonus (Fischer or Increment)

Each time you complete a move, the clock adds a small increment (e.g., 5 seconds). It prevents time from running too low if you play quickly.

2. Bronstein Delay

After each move, you regain only the time you actually used, up to a set delay. If the delay is 10 seconds and you move in 5 seconds, 5 seconds are returned.

3. Simple Delay

The clock waits for a set amount of time (e.g., 5 seconds) before it starts counting down. This ensures a short buffer for every move without permanently extending total time.