Pomodoro Timer

A simple focus timer. Work in 25-minute Pomodoro sessions with short and long breaks, or set a countdown for anything else. Sound alerts included.

FreePomodoro & countdownSound alerts

Timer settings

Keep this tab open. The timer stays accurate in the background and plays a sound when time is up.

min
min
min
focus sessions

Runs in your browser. Nothing is sent anywhere.

Focus25:00Session 1

How the Pomodoro Technique works

The Pomodoro Technique is a simple way to beat procrastination and stay focused. You work on one task for a short, fixed time, then take a break.

  1. Pick one task and press Start for a 25-minute focus session.
  2. Work only on that task until the timer rings. If a distraction comes up, write it down for later.
  3. Take a 5-minute short break: stand up, stretch or get some water.
  4. After four focus sessions, take a longer 15 to 30-minute break.

The timer moves to the next session for you and shows how many focus sessions you have completed in the current cycle.

Make it fit how you work

25 minutes is the classic length, but you can change any of the times. Many people prefer 50 minutes of focus with a 10-minute break for deep work, or 15-minute sessions when a task feels hard to start. Untick Start the next session automatically if you want to start each session yourself.

Countdown timer

Switch to Countdown for anything else: cooking, exercise, exams, meetings, a presentation or a quick nap. Choose a preset or type hours, minutes and seconds.

Will it work in the background?

Yes. The timer is based on the clock, not on counting ticks, so it stays accurate even when your browser slows down background tabs. The remaining time also shows in the browser tab title. Turn on desktop notifications to get an alert when you are in another window, and keep the sound on. Your browser may ask for permission to show notifications the first time.

Tips for better focus

  • Silence your phone and close unrelated tabs before you start.
  • Plan your sessions at the start of the day: estimate how many Pomodoros each task needs.
  • Do not skip breaks. They help you stay sharp for longer.

Pomodoro Timer FAQs

Answers about Pomodoro sessions, breaks and alerts.

What is a Pomodoro?+

A Pomodoro is one focused work session, traditionally 25 minutes, followed by a short break. The name comes from the tomato-shaped kitchen timer used by its inventor, Francesco Cirillo.

Why take a long break after four sessions?+

Longer rest after a few focus blocks helps your brain recover, so you can keep concentrating through the rest of the day.

Does the timer keep running if I switch tabs?+

Yes. It keeps accurate time in the background, shows the time left in the tab title, and plays a sound when time is up. Keep the tab open.

Why didn't I hear the alarm?+

Check that Play a sound is ticked and your device volume is up. Some browsers only allow sound after you have clicked on the page, so press Start rather than using a keyboard shortcut.

Is it free?+

Yes. There is no sign-up and no limit. It runs entirely in your browser.