Online Stopwatch
Start, stop and record lap times to the hundredth of a second.
How to use the online stopwatch
- Press Start to begin timing.
- Press Lap to record a split without stopping the clock. Your newest lap appears at the top.
- Press Stop to pause, then Resume to carry on from the same time.
- Press Reset to clear the time and all laps. You will be asked to confirm so you never lose a run by accident.
What is a stopwatch used for?
A stopwatch counts up from zero, so it is ideal when you do not know how long something will take. Runners and swimmers use lap times to check their pacing, students time practice questions, presenters rehearse a talk, and cooks track how long something has been resting.
Stopwatch or timer?
Use a stopwatch to measure how long something takes. Use a timer or a countdown timer when you want an alarm after a set amount of time.
How accurate is this stopwatch?
It measures real elapsed time and shows it to the hundredth of a second, so it stays correct even if you switch tabs. Accuracy depends on your device, so it suits everyday use but is not a substitute for official sports timing.
Related timers
- Online Timer: for an alarm after a set time
- Countdown Timer: count down from any length of time
Frequently asked questions
How do I record lap times?
Press Lap while the stopwatch is running. Each lap shows the time for that lap and the total time so far.
Does the stopwatch keep running if I switch tabs?
Yes. It works from the clock, not from counting ticks, so the time is right when you come back.
What is the difference between a stopwatch and a timer?
A stopwatch counts up to show how long something has taken. A timer counts down from a set time and alerts you at zero.
Is there a time limit?
No practical limit. You can leave the stopwatch running for hours.