How to use the online timer
Getting eggs exactly how you like them comes down to timing, and 121 seconds is a starting point plenty of people use for soft yolks with just-set whites. Drop the eggs in once the water's rolling, start the timer straight away, and pull them out the moment it finishes rather than leaving them to keep cooking in the hot water. A few seconds either way changes the whole result.
There's no setup beyond pressing Start, and the countdown handles the rest on its own from that point. Since it runs inside the browser, keep the tab open for the timer to keep an accurate count; you can switch to other tabs in the meantime, but closing this one out resets things. When the countdown hits zero, a sound plays so you're not stuck staring at the numbers.
Unlike a mechanical kitchen timer, this one doesn't need winding, batteries, or a spot on the bench where you'll remember to look at it. It sits in a browser tab, which means you can check it from your laptop, your phone, or any device with a browser without owning a gadget for it. Minimise the window and it keeps counting; just don't close the tab. People type this as set timer 121 seconds or timer for 121 seconds; both land here and start the same count.
Common questions
Can I set a custom time instead of the preset?
Yes, most pages let you adjust the minutes and seconds directly, so you're not limited to the exact length shown in the page title.
Does the timer work without an internet connection?
The page needs to load once, but the countdown itself runs locally in your browser, so a dropped connection partway through won't stop it.
Will the timer still run if my laptop goes to sleep?
No, if the device sleeps or the browser is suspended, the countdown pauses along with it, so keep your screen awake for an accurate result.
Is there a cost to use the timer?
No, it's free to use, with no registration, sign-up, or hidden limit on how many times you can run it.