It’s been over a decade since I discovered my spinal vertebrae are deteriorating, essentially compressing together. To combat this, I’ve been using a standing desk to reduce sitting time. However, just having a standing desk doesn’t guarantee I’ll actually use it. I often found myself sitting for entire workdays, especially when engrossed in a task. This is where today’s app recommendation comes into play.
To address this, I needed a regular reminder to stand and move around. A simple kitchen timer would suffice, providing an audible cue to switch positions every hour.
However, with a powerful desktop computer at my fingertips, it seemed illogical not to utilize it for this purpose. My search began for a suitable software solution, preferably one that wouldn’t cost me anything. I tested several options.
Finding a free, no-strings-attached application is surprisingly challenging in 2024. Many apps I explored on my iPad (used as a desk clock and for email/social notifications) were riddled with ads and in-app purchases. One even demanded a $3 monthly subscription. While I appreciate developers deserving compensation, $36 annually for a simple timer seemed excessive.
timer subscription pageA $36 annual subscription for a simple timer? Seriously?
After several weeks of experimentation, I discovered “Free Timer,” available in the Microsoft Store and as a downloadable EXE (installer and standalone versions). While visually unassuming, it provides precisely what I require, with more features and a better interface than the default Windows clock app.
Free Timer Features and Benefits
free timer screenshot
The large, high-contrast display allows me to easily monitor remaining time on my secondary monitor. Combined with PowerTools’ FancyZones feature, it’s a permanent fixture on my desktop. Even if obscured, the timer continues running in the taskbar. Clicking anywhere within the window starts or pauses the timer, which is helpful for interruptions.
When the hourly timer expires, a loud cuckoo clock chime (customizable sounds available) alerts me. It’s impossible to miss, even during focused work. A single click after adjusting my desk position restarts the timer, with an auto-restart option also available.
timer on second monitorThe app resides in the corner of my second monitor, positioned using PowerToys FancyZones.
Additional Features and Customization
Free Timer offers surprisingly robust customization options, including light and dark themes, custom colors for remaining time, a fullscreen mode, and a “start with Windows” setting. A “metronome” mode provides audible ticks every second.
Conclusion: A Simple Solution with a Big Impact
Free Timer motivates me to utilize my standing desk, and my back feels noticeably better after a few weeks. It reaffirms that developers still create simple, useful apps without demanding recurring subscriptions or bombarding users with ads. I even sent the developer a $10 tip via PayPal—partly out of gratitude, partly to defy the subscription-obsessed competition.
