How to Use an Online Stopwatch with Lap Times
A stopwatch is one of those tools you reach for surprisingly often — timing a workout, a presentation, a science experiment, or how long the pasta has been boiling. An online stopwatch means you don't need a separate device; it's ready in your browser whenever you need it.
What are lap times?
A "lap" records the elapsed time at a moment without stopping the clock. Runners use laps to time each circuit; students use them to time sections of study. Each lap is saved so you can compare them afterwards.
Step-by-step: use the stopwatch
- Open the Stopwatch.
- Click Start to begin timing.
- Click Lap whenever you want to record a split time.
- Click Pause to stop, and Reset to clear everything.
Great uses for a stopwatch
- Workouts: time intervals, rests and circuits.
- Studying: use the Pomodoro technique — 25 minutes focused, 5 minutes break.
- Cooking: track steeping, boiling or resting times.
- Public speaking: rehearse to fit a time limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the stopwatch accurate?
Yes. It measures real elapsed time using your device's clock, down to hundredths of a second.
Will it keep running if I switch tabs?
Yes, the elapsed time is calculated from real timestamps, so it stays accurate even if the tab is in the background.
How many laps can I record?
As many as you like — each new lap is added to the list.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes, it's fully responsive and works on phones and tablets.
Do I need to install anything?
No. It runs directly in your browser, free and instantly.
Try the Stopwatch