How to use the online break timer
- Choose how many minutes you want to work and rest. The starting example is 50 minutes of work and 10 minutes away.
- Press Start timer. Keep the tab open. The remaining time also appears in the tab title.
- When the countdown ends, press Start break and change activity. A break spent on your phone is still screen time.
- When the break ends, start the next focus session. Reset clears the counter and lets you change the intervals.
Which work and break intervals should I use?
Start with an interval you can follow and adjust to the task. A 50/10 rhythm is an example, not a universal optimum. For a shorter task cycle, use the 25/5 Pomodoro timer; for short distance-viewing prompts, use the 20-20-20 eye-break timer.
The HSE advises short, frequent screen-work breaks and changes of activity. Choose timing around your work and needs. To plan lunch and breaks for the whole day, use the break schedule calculator.
Browser timer or Windows break reminder?
This tool counts elapsed time and gives a visible cue. It cannot detect whether you have left the desk or cover your other apps. A sleeping computer, closed tab or suspended browser can delay or prevent alerts. When the tab runs again, it checks the deadline and stops at the due phase; it does not count unattended cycles as completed breaks.
For activity-aware timing across your Windows apps, read about the desktop break timer. StopBurnout's desktop app has a 14-day trial, followed by a paid lifetime license. This web timer remains free.
Break timer questions
Will it work when I switch tabs?
The deadline remains the same while this page stays open. Browsers may throttle or suspend background tabs, so the visible update and sound can arrive late. Keep the page available and do not rely on it as a critical alarm.
Does the next break start automatically?
No. Start each phase yourself so the timer does not assume you rested while you were still working. Skipping a focus phase does not add a completed session.
Is there an alarm sound?
You can enable a short sound before starting a phase. Your browser and device must allow audio and have an audible volume. There are no desktop notifications or permission prompts.
By the StopBurnout Team · Updated October 18, 2026. Inputs stay in this page; reload clears them.