Online Stopwatch
Use this free online stopwatch to measure elapsed time, record laps and time activities without installing an app.
What is an online stopwatch?
An online stopwatch measures elapsed time from the moment you press Start. Unlike a countdown timer, it does not begin with a fixed duration or count toward zero. It keeps running until you pause or reset it, making it useful whenever you need to find out how long an activity takes.
How to use this stopwatch
- Press Start. The stopwatch begins measuring elapsed time immediately.
- Record a lap. Press Lap during a session to save the current split and total time.
- Pause when finished. Press Pause to stop the elapsed-time counter without clearing your recorded laps.
- Reset when ready. Reset clears the elapsed time and recorded laps so you can start a new session.
What can you use a stopwatch for?
An online stopwatch can be useful for workouts, running, sports drills, cooking, reaction-time exercises, classroom activities, study sessions, presentations, experiments and everyday tasks where you want to measure elapsed time rather than count down from a preset duration.
This tool also fits into a wider set of practical utilities. Depending on what you are trying to calculate or measure next, you can continue with 1 minute timer, 30 minute timer, time difference calculator and time calculator. For the complete collection, visit the utility tools homepage and choose another tool when your task changes.
Using lap times
Lap times let you record milestones without stopping the stopwatch. For example, during a workout you can record each interval, or during a run you can capture each kilometre split. The stopwatch keeps the overall elapsed time while each lap shows the time since the previous lap.
Online stopwatch vs. countdown timer
A stopwatch answers “How long has this taken?” while a countdown timer answers “How much time is left?” Use the stopwatch when the duration is unknown or you want to measure performance. Use a countdown when you already know the amount of time available.
Frequently asked questions
How do I use the online stopwatch?
Press Start to begin measuring elapsed time. Use Pause to stop the clock temporarily, Lap to record a split time, and Reset to clear the stopwatch.
Can I record lap times?
Yes. Press Lap while the stopwatch is running to record the current split and the total elapsed time.
Does the stopwatch require an app or account?
No. The stopwatch runs directly in your browser and does not require an account or installation.
Can I use this stopwatch for workouts or sports?
Yes. It can be used for exercise intervals, running, drills, races, practice sessions, study sessions and other activities where elapsed time matters.