Free online
chess clock.

ChessClock.now is a free two-player chess timer that works in your browser. Choose a preset or custom control, then play with increment or delay on one shared device- No account or download required.

Instant startNo account needed
Flexible timingIncrement & delay
Always availableOffline ready
Local match

Space switch · P pause · F full screen · S settings · works offline

Choose the pace

How did it end?

Guest games stay in this browser. Signed-in games are also saved to your dashboard.
Across the boardTwo players, one device AI clock playerCompare four on-device levels Invite a friendLink two screens with a room code Bluetooth clockRemotes, pedals and e-boards

How to use this online chess clock

Set the control before move one, then follow the same move-and-press sequence throughout the game.

  1. 1

    Choose a time control

    Pick a preset or open Settings to enter the starting minutes, bonus type and bonus seconds.

  2. 2

    Start the first player’s timer

    Check both sides, then start the clock for the player who makes the first move.

  3. 3

    Move, then press

    After completing a legal move, press your side once to stop your timer and start the opponent’s.

  4. 4

    Pause or finish clearly

    Pause for an interruption. Use Finish when the game ends so the result can appear in game history.

New to clock play? Read the complete guide to using a chess clock. The timer methodology explains how elapsed time, increment and delay are calculated.

An online chess clock for real games.

A chess clock gives both players a separate time bank and runs only one timer at a time. Our chess clock guide library explains the controls, rules and time-management skills behind the tool.

Explore 23 original guides →
Editorial illustration of a green chess clock beside a wooden tournament board
Original editorial illustration

Train chess time management, not just speed.

Good clock use is not “moving fast.” It is recognizing which decisions deserve investment and leaving yourself enough time to finish the work.

Spend time where another minute can change the answer.
Read the full guide

Chess clock guides from first press to final flag.

View all guides →

Start with the clock

Set up, operate and understand a chess clock without slowing down the game.

Explore desk →

Time controls

Classical, rapid, blitz, bullet, increment and delay- What each format asks of a player.

Explore desk →

Tournament play

Practical clock handling, etiquette and event preparation for serious over-the-board play.

Explore desk →

Clock craft

Build a healthier thinking rhythm, diagnose time trouble and rehearse pressure deliberately.

Explore desk →

Clocks & technology

How chess clocks work, where they came from and how to choose accessible hardware.

Explore desk →

Built to answer the next question.

Start with the clock

How to use a chess clock

A plain-English guide to setting, starting, pressing and pausing a two-player chess clock.

7 min read →Start with the clock

Chess clock rules players actually need

The practical rules and habits that prevent clock disputes in casual and tournament chess.

8 min read →Start with the clock

How to set a chess clock

Build a correct custom time control and verify it before play begins.

6 min read →Start with the clock

Chess clock presets explained

A practical preset chart for casual games, clubs, training and quick rematches.

6 min read →Start with the clock

Chess clock glossary

Plain-English definitions of chess clock terms, symbols, controls and tournament phrases.

8 min read →Time controls

Classical chess time controls

Understand long-form chess controls, stages, added time and how to pace a serious game.

9 min read →
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Set the time. Start the game.

Your last settings stay on this device. No signup wall, no ad between you and the clock.

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