Online Chess Clock

A simple online chess clock for your next game

This chess clock is split into two halves, one for each player, just like a tournament chess clock. After each move, the player taps to stop their clock and start their opponent's. Most people don't have a physical chess clock at home, and this one can run on any phone. For Fischer time controls (5+3, 15+10) you'd usually need a dedicated device or an app install, but this clock runs easily in your browser.

How to use the chess clock

First, pick a time control from the settings gear (5+3 for blitz, 15+10 for rapid, custom for everything else).
Place the phone between the two players in portrait orientation. The top half is rotated so it reads upright to the player opposite you.
White plays first, so the first tap is on white's side (the bottom half); this stops white's clock and starts black's. Repeat. The reset icon needs a confirmation tap, so an elbow can't end your game.

Note: Check your device's power and screen settings and run a trial before important games. The alert won't sound if your device goes to sleep.

Tips for choosing the best time setting

If you're new to chess, avoid starting with fast games like 3+0. Choosing 15+10 gives you more time to think, which is better for learning or casual play. Once you have more experience, try 5+3: a popular blitz format that usually finishes in 10 to 15 minutes.

Can a chess clock improve my game?

Not by itself, but you can use this clock as part of your practice. Try solving problems and learning common positions without the clock, then switch to timed games with a partner to improve your skills.

Common questions

What is the Fischer increment?: After every move, a few seconds are added back to your clock. So in 5+3, you start with 5 minutes and gain 3 seconds per move. This prevents the game from ending purely on the clock in winning positions.
What happens at 00:00?: The clock chimes and you lose on time. The screen shows that the other player wins.
What if my phone sleeps mid-game?: The page will request Wake Lock when a game is running, so the screen stays awake as long as your browser supports it.
Does it work in landscape?: If you switch to landscape display, the layout will stay portrait with the two halves shrunk and stacked. The best display is portrait with the phone between players.
What if I switch tabs mid-game?: The active clock will pause and the clock will resume from where it was when you return to the tab, like holding the pause button on a tournament clock.