Does this timer work when I switch tabs?

Yes. The countdown is measured against the clock, so the remaining time stays correct in a background tab, and the notification shows even when the tab is hidden if you granted permission. Browsers slow down hidden tabs, so the beep or notification can arrive a little late. Keep the tab visible for exact timing.

Why did I not receive a browser notification?

You need to click "Enable Notifications" before starting the timer. If you previously denied permission, reset it in your browser site settings and reload the page.

What is the maximum duration I can set?

You can enter up to 99 minutes and 59 seconds, giving a maximum session of just under 100 minutes.

Is any data sent to a server?

No. The timer runs entirely in your browser. Nothing is logged or transmitted.

Can I use this for the Pomodoro technique?

Absolutely. The default 25-minute duration matches the standard Pomodoro work interval. After each session, reset to 5 minutes for a short break.

What is the Pomodoro technique?

A method from Francesco Cirillo: work for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and after four rounds take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. Use the 25 min and 5 min presets here.

Can I set a 90 minute focus session?

Yes. Type 90 in the minutes box and press Start. Any length up to 99 minutes and 59 seconds works.

Focus Timer

Set a countdown duration, press Start, and get a browser notification when your focus session ends.

Press 25 min and Start for a classic Pomodoro block, then use the 5 min preset for the break.

Timer Settings

Duration

Minutes

Seconds

Quick Presets

25:00 Ready

Quick answer

Press 25 min and Start for a classic Pomodoro block, then use the 5 min preset for the break. Any length up to 99:59 works. At zero the timer beeps and, if you allow notifications, shows a desktop alert.

Examples

Method	Focus	Break
Pomodoro	25 min	5 min (15–30 min after 4 rounds)
50/10	50 min	10 min
Short sprint	15 min	5 min
Deep work block	90 min	15–20 min

Start a focus session.

Summary

The Focus Timer is a browser-based countdown tool designed for the Pomodoro technique and any timed work session. Set your desired duration in minutes and seconds, hit Start, and the timer counts down with a live display. When time expires, the page plays an audible beep and sends a browser notification — even if you have switched tabs. No account or installation required.

How it works

Set the number of minutes and seconds you want to count down.
Click "Start" to begin the countdown.
Click "Pause" at any time to freeze the timer; click "Resume" to continue.
Click "Reset" to return to your original duration.
When the timer reaches zero, an alarm beeps and a browser notification fires.

Use cases

Run a classic 25-minute Pomodoro focus block.
Time short breaks between work sessions.
Set a meeting countdown so you wrap up on time.
Use as a cooking or exercise interval timer.
Limit social-media browsing to a fixed number of minutes.
Practice timed writing sprints or study sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-06-11 · Reviewed by Nham Vu