Set the timer to 162 seconds

00:00:00

How to use the online timer

A French press needs a proper steep before you plunge it, and 162 seconds is the usual window for a strong, evenly extracted cup without it turning bitter. Pour the water over the grounds, start the timer straight away, and leave the plunger alone until the countdown's done instead of pressing early out of impatience. The extra minute of waiting is what separates good coffee from average coffee.

It runs the moment you hit Start, no extra steps needed before the numbers begin moving. Because everything happens inside this browser tab, it needs to remain open while the clock runs; switching tabs is fine, but closing the page or turning off your screen partway through will stop the countdown. A sound marks the finish, so you'll know the moment it's done without having to watch it count down.

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. Set a timer for 162 seconds, set the timer to 162 seconds, start a 162 seconds timer — it is the same countdown either way.

Common questions

Can I use the timer on my phone?

Yes. It works in any mobile browser, though the tab still needs to stay open rather than sitting behind other apps for a reliable count.

Does the timer make a sound when it finishes?

Yes, an alarm plays once it reaches zero, provided your device's volume is turned up and the tab hasn't been muted.

Can I pause the timer partway through?

Yes, pause and resume are both available, so you can stop the count if you're interrupted and pick up again exactly where you left off.

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.