⏱ Pomodoro Timer Online

Free focus timer — accurate in background tabs

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⚙️ Settings

Today's Stats

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Day streak

How the Pomodoro Technique Works

The Pomodoro Technique was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s, named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer he used as a student. The core idea is simple: work in focused 25-minute intervals ("pomodoros") separated by short 5-minute breaks, with a longer break every four sessions.

Why it works

The technique exploits two cognitive science principles. First, time-boxing creates artificial urgency — knowing a session ends in 25 minutes makes it easier to resist distractions and commit fully. Second, regular breaks prevent cognitive fatigue and maintain performance over longer periods. A person who works in focused 25-minute sprints typically accomplishes more in 4 hours than someone grinding for 4 hours straight.

The session cycle

A standard Pomodoro cycle looks like: 25 min focus → 5 min break → 25 min focus → 5 min break → 25 min focus → 5 min break → 25 min focus → 15–30 min long break. After the long break, the cycle resets. The cycle dots at the top of this timer show your progress through the current cycle.

Timer accuracy in background tabs

This timer uses Date.now() timestamps rather than counting interval ticks, so it stays accurate even when your browser throttles background tabs. The elapsed time is always computed from the stored start timestamp, not from how many times the interval has fired. This means switching tabs, minimizing the window, or even a brief system sleep won't cause the timer to drift.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method by Francesco Cirillo: 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break, repeated 4 times, then a longer 15–30 minute break. It builds concentration and prevents burnout.
Will the timer stay accurate if I switch tabs?
Yes. The timer records a start timestamp using Date.now(). Every second, it computes remaining time as (duration − (Date.now() − startTime)). Browser tab throttling affects how often the display updates, but not the underlying accuracy — you'll never lose or gain seconds.
How do I get desktop notifications when the timer ends?
Enable "Browser notifications" in Settings. The app requests permission once — you must click Allow. After that, a notification fires each time a session or break ends, visible even when the tab is in the background.
Can I customize the work and break durations?
Yes. Open Settings and set your preferred Work (5–60 min), Short Break (1–15 min), Long Break (5–30 min), and cycle length (2–8 pomodoros). Changes apply at the next session start — the current session runs with its original duration.
Does it track my sessions across days?
Yes. Completed sessions and focus minutes are stored in localStorage and reset automatically each day at midnight. Nothing is sent to a server — all data stays in your browser.