Smartwatch timers are a convenient and powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from timing workouts to tracking work hours. A smartwatch with timer is very useful and more convenient than using a phone. But with so many different smartwatch models and apps available, it can be tricky to know where to start. Learn how to use a smartwatch timer.
Timers are built-in for most smartwatches, however, a smartwatch with interval timer is not and you must download an app from Google Play for doing interval timing. Be sure the date and time is set correctly on your smartwatch (How to set the date and time on a Smartwatch?).
In this guide, we’ll show you how to use a smartwatch timer and introduce you to the best timer apps for 2023.
How to use a smartwatch timer?
The basic steps for using a smartwatch with timer are the same for most models:
- If you have set a timer on your phone, when the timer alarm goes off, it will be displayed on your watch and you can dismiss the timer alarm on your watch.
- Set a timer for your watch only (without phone)
- Open the apps menu by swiping on the face of your watch or press the Power button.
- Swipe down looking for the Timer app and Open it.
- Enter how long you want the timer to run.
- Tap Start
- The timer will countdown and vibrate or beep when it reaches zero.
- After the timer has started:
- To pause the timer, Touch Pause
- To reset a paused timer countdown, Touch Reset
- To resume a timer, Touch Start
- To delete a timer, Touch Remove
Best timer apps and smartwatch with interval timer:
Here are a few of the best timer apps for smartwatch available:
General Timer Apps:
- Google Clock: This free app comes pre-installed on most Android devices and also works with Wear OS smartwatches. It offers basic timer functionality, including the ability to set multiple timers.
Interval Timers:
- Interval Timer – Tabata Timer: This is a popular app with a simple interface and strong focus on interval training, including features like HIIT workouts and customization options
- Interval Timer: Another popular choice, this app offers basic interval timers with customization and background functionality.
Specialized Timer Apps:
- RacePace: This app is specifically designed for runners and cyclists. It provides pace tracking, distance measurements, and lap times. While it doesn’t have a traditional timer function, it can be used to time your workouts.
- Cook Mate: This app is a recipe and meal planning app that also includes a built-in timer. It’s great for following recipes that require multiple timers for different ingredients.
- Meditation Timer: There are many meditation timer apps available, both free and paid. These apps typically offer timed meditation sessions with guided audio instructions or calming sounds.
- Pomodoro: Pomodoro timers are designed to help you focus on tasks in 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between. There are many Pomodoro timer apps available, both free and paid.
- Timewear Plus: This app is specifically designed for Wear OS smartwatches and offers a variety of timer functions, including interval timers, countdowns, and stopwatches.
- Seven: This app is a free workout app that offers a variety of bodyweight exercises in 7-minute workouts. It includes a built-in timer to keep you on track.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Timer App:
- Features: Think about what features are important to you, such as customization options, pre-built workouts, or rep tracking.
- Platform: Make sure the app is compatible with your smartwatch model and operating system.
- Price: There are both free and paid timer apps available. Decide which option best suits your needs.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other users to get an idea of the app’s functionality and ease of use.
Smartwatch timer apps are a great way to stay on track and manage your time effectively. But with so many different apps available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
Comparison chart of some of the most popular smartwatch timer apps:
| Feature | Google Clock | Interval Timer – Tabata Timer | Interval Timer | RacePace | Cook Mate | Meditation Timer | Pomodoro | Timewear Plus | Seven |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Platform | Android, Wear OS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Wear OS | Android, iOS |
| Price | Free | Free | Free | Free (premium available) | Free (premium available) | Free (many options) | Free (many options) | Free (premium available) | Free |
| Basic Timer | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No |
| Interval Timer | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Pre-built Workouts | No | Yes (HIIT focus) | No | No | No | Guided meditations (may vary) | Pomodoro technique intervals | No | Seven minute workout |
| Customization | Limited | Yes (rounds, work/rest, etc.) | Yes (durations, sounds) | Limited | Limited | Varies (sounds, music) | Varies (intervals, breaks) | Yes | No |
| Background Function | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rep Counting | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Pace Tracking | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Recipe Integration | No | No | No | No | Yespen_spark | No | No | No | No |
When choosing a smartwatch timer app, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Features: What features are important to you? Do you need a simple timer, or do you need more advanced features such as custom interval workouts or integration with other apps?
- Pricing: Some timer apps are free, while others charge a fee. Consider your budget when choosing an app.
- Supported platforms: Make sure that the app you choose is compatible with your smartwatch platform.
Using timers, interval timers or a stopwatch on a smartwatch is very handy while you are busy moving around, or if you are exercising. Runners may want to use an interval timer to track laps or multiple runners.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers about using a smartwatch with timer:
Q: How do I start the timer on my smartwatch?
A: On most smartwatches, you can start the timer by opening the timer app and tapping the “Start” button. Some smartwatches also allow you to start the timer by using voice commands.
Q: How do I set the timer duration?
A: To set the timer duration on most smartwatches, simply rotate the digital crown or tap the “+” and “-” buttons to increase or decrease the time.
Q: How do I pause the timer?
A: To pause the timer on most smartwatches, simply tap the “Pause” button.
Q: How do I resume the timer?
A: To resume the timer on most smartwatches, simply tap the “Resume” button.
Q: How do I stop the timer?
A: To stop the timer on most smartwatches, simply tap the “Stop” button.
Q: How do I reset the timer?
A: To reset the timer on most smartwatches, tap the “Reset” button. This will clear the elapsed time and allow you to start over.
Q: How do I create a custom timer?
A: To create a custom timer on most smartwatches, simply open the timer app and tap the “+” button. Then, set the desired timer duration and tap the “Save” button.
Q: How do I delete a custom timer?
A: To delete a custom timer on most smartwatches, simply open the timer app, tap the custom timer you want to delete, and tap the “Delete” button.
Q: How do I record a lap time on my smartwatch?
A: To record a lap time on most smartwatches, tap the “Lap” button. This will record the elapsed time since you started the timer or since your previous lap.
Q: How do I sync my smartwatch timer data with my fitness tracker or training app?
A: To sync your smartwatch timer data with your fitness tracker or training app, you will need to connect the two devices. This can usually be done through the app on your smartphone. Once the devices are connected, the app will sync your timer data automatically.
Q: How do I troubleshoot my smartwatch timer if it is not working properly?
A: If your smartwatch timer is not working properly, there are a few things you can try:
- Restart your smartwatch.
- Make sure that your smartwatch is up to date with the latest software.
- Calibrate the timer. To do this, consult your smartwatch’s manual for instructions.
- Try using a different smartwatch timer app.
Common problems and solutions for using a smartwatch with timer:
Problem: The timer is not accurate.
Solution: Make sure that your smartwatch is up to date with the latest software. You may also need to calibrate the timer. To do this, consult your smartwatch’s manual for instructions. If you have tried both of these things and the timer is still not accurate, contact your smartwatch manufacturer for support.
Problem: The timer is difficult to use.
Solution: If you are having trouble using the timer on your smartwatch, try downloading a different timer app. There are many different timer apps available, many of which are designed to be easy to use.
Problem: The timer is draining my smartwatch’s battery.
Solution: Most smartwatch timer apps are designed to be energy-efficient. However, there are a few things you can do to extend your smartwatch’s battery life, such as closing the timer app when you are not using it and reducing the screen brightness. If you are still having problems with battery life, contact your smartwatch manufacturer for support.
Problem: The timer is not working at all.
Solution: If your smartwatch timer is not working at all, try restarting your smartwatch. If the problem persists, contact your smartwatch manufacturer for support.
Here are some additional tips for using a smartwatch timer:
- Make sure that your smartwatch is properly charged before using the timer.
- Avoid using the timer in wet or humid conditions.
- Clean your smartwatch regularly to remove dirt and debris.
Read about using a stopwatch and interval timer on smartwatch – Smartwatch Stopwatch, how to use?
