Chess Timer Online – Free Digital Chess Clock
A chess timer is a two-sided clock that gives each player a fixed amount of time for the whole game. This free online chess clock works on any phone, tablet or computer: choose a preset such as 5+3, tap your side after every move, and the clock does the rest.
How to use this chess timer
- Pick a time control with the quick buttons, or open Settings for presets and custom minutes, increment and delay.
- Put the device between you and your opponent. White plays from the bottom and Black from the top, and on a wide screen the clocks sit side by side.
- The first tap starts your opponent’s clock. After that, tap your own side when you finish each move.
- Use Pause for interruptions. When a clock hits zero the timer stops and shows who ran out of time.
Keyboard: Space switches sides, P pauses and R resets.
Time controls at a glance
| Format | Common settings | Typical game | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bullet | 1+0, 2+1 | 2 to 5 minutes | Fast reflexes, online play |
| Blitz | 3+2, 5+3 | 9 to 15 minutes | Club nights, practice |
| Rapid | 10+0, 15+10 | 20 to 45 minutes | Learning, friendly games |
| Classical | 60+0, 90+30 | 2 to 4 hours | Serious study, tournaments |
In “5+3”, the first number is minutes per player and the second is seconds added after each move. Details are in the time controls guide.
Why use an online chess clock?
It costs nothing, needs no download and is already in your pocket. It suits home games, lessons, school clubs and casual meetups. For official rated tournaments, check which physical clocks your event requires, as many require approved devices.
Frequently asked questions
How does a chess clock work?
A chess clock has two timers but only one runs at a time. When you finish a move you press your side: your timer stops and your opponent’s starts. If one timer reaches zero, that player loses on time, unless the opponent has no way to checkmate.
What is the clock for in chess?
It makes sure both players get the same total thinking time and that games finish in a reasonable time. Without a clock, one player could stall a game for hours.
What is the name of the clock used in chess?
It is called a chess clock or game clock. When a player’s time runs out, people say their “flag fell”, a term from analog clocks that had a small flag.
What are increment and delay?
Increment adds a fixed number of seconds to your clock after each move. Delay holds your clock for a few seconds at the start of each turn before time runs down. Bronstein delay gives back the time you used, up to the delay.
What happens when my time runs out?
The timer stops and shows which side ran out of time. Over the board, the opponent normally claims the win, and the result depends on your event’s rules.
Does the chess timer work offline on my phone?
Yes. Open it once with a connection, then add it to your home screen. It loads from your device afterwards.
Which time control should I pick?
Pick 1+0 or 2+1 for bullet, 3+2 or 5+3 for blitz, 10+0 or 15+10 for rapid. If you are learning, choose the longest control you have time for.
Guides
- How does a chess clock work?
Rules, flag fall and history in plain English. - Time controls explained
Increment, delay, Bronstein and game length. - Digital chess clock
Online versus a physical clock.
Last updated 5 November 2026.