3 Minute Timer

Start a free 3 minute countdown right now. Great for brewing tea, quick exercises, or any short task. Just press start and the timer handles the rest.

Three minutes gives you enough time to complete a focused mini-task without losing momentum. It's one of the most practical short timer durations.

How Do I Use the 3 Minute Timer?

1. Hit Start to kick off the 3-minute countdown.
2. Watch the progress ring as it counts down.
3. Pause or reset whenever you need to.
4. The alarm sounds when your 3 minutes are done.

Use Space to start or pause, R to reset. Switch to fullscreen for a clean, distraction-free display.

What Can I Do With a 3 Minute Timer?

Three minutes is the perfect length for many activities:

• Steeping tea. Most green and white teas brew best in 2 to 3 minutes. Set the timer and get a perfect cup every time.
• Plank or wall sit. A 3-minute hold is a serious fitness challenge. Use the timer to push yourself.
• Speed reading drill. Read as much as you can in 3 minutes, then check how many pages you covered. Track your improvement over time.
• Quick journal entry. Set the timer and write whatever comes to mind. Three minutes of free writing can clear your head.
• Classroom activity. Teachers often use 3-minute timers for think-pair-share exercises or quick brainstorms.
• Oral hygiene. Some electric toothbrush brands recommend brushing for 3 minutes total. This timer can replace the built-in one.

What Is the Best Way to Brew Tea With a Timer?

Different teas need different steeping times. Here's a quick guide:

• Green tea: 2 to 3 minutes. Too long and it gets bitter.
• Black tea: 3 to 5 minutes for full flavor.
• White tea: 2 to 3 minutes at lower heat.
• Herbal tea: 5 to 7 minutes. These are more forgiving.

For most teas, 3 minutes is a safe starting point. Set this timer, pour your water, and come back to a perfectly brewed cup. If you want a longer steep, try the 5 minute timer instead.

Can I Use the Timer in Fullscreen?

Yes. Click the fullscreen button in the top right corner. The timer fills your entire screen with a large, easy-to-read display. This is handy in a kitchen, gym, or classroom where you need to see the countdown from a distance.

The alarm still plays in fullscreen, and you can exit by pressing Escape or clicking the button again.

More Timers and Tools

Try the 2 minute timer or 5 minute timer for a shorter or longer countdown. For timed work sessions, the Pomodoro timer uses 25-minute blocks with built-in breaks. Need to count up? Use the stopwatch.

Start your 3 minute timer and get brewing, stretching, or writing.