About the Chess Clock
Our free online chess clock lets you time your chess games with professional-style time controls. Set the minutes per player and optional increment (bonus seconds added after each move). The clock automatically switches when you tap your side after making a move.
How Does a Chess Clock Work?
A chess timer consists of two clocks that count down alternately. When you make a move, you tap your side of the clock to stop your timer and start your opponent's. Each player has the same amount of time at the start, and if your clock runs out before the game ends, you lose on time. This adds exciting time pressure to the game and ensures matches don't drag on forever.
Time Controls
- Bullet - 1 minute per player, for fast-paced games
- Blitz - 3 or 5 minutes per player
- Rapid - 10-15 minutes per player
- Classical - 30+ minutes for serious play
What is Increment?
Increment (shown as +seconds after the time, like "5|3") adds bonus seconds to your clock after each move. This prevents players from losing on time in winning positions and rewards faster play. Common increments are 2-3 seconds for blitz and 10 seconds for rapid games.
How to Use
- Set time - Choose minutes per player and optional increment
- Start game - Click Start Game to begin
- Make moves - Tap your side (or press Space) after each move to switch clocks
- Pause/Reset - Use the control buttons to pause or start a new game
Features
- Popular preset time controls (1, 3, 5, 10, 15, 30 minutes)
- Customizable increment
- Move counter for each player
- Low time warning (turns red under 30 seconds)
- Tenths of seconds display when under 20 seconds
- Works on mobile and desktop
- Keyboard support (Space to switch clocks)