Speech Timer
Free online timer with preset or custom green, yellow and red signals
A speech timer that is ready when you are
Use the timer above for a prepared speech, a short talk, a presentation or a practice run. Pick a common speech length, check the four thresholds and press Start Timer. Nothing needs to be downloaded and no account is required.
The display fills the screen while it runs, so the speaker can read the clock and see the signal from a distance. Optional sounds and vibration reinforce each color change on supported devices.
Start or pause
Select the button or press Space.
Use fullscreen
Press F or select the fullscreen control.
Mute alerts
Press M whenever you only need visual signals.
Reuse your setup
Share a link or copy the timer embed code.
What each speech timing signal means
Before green
Keep speaking; the minimum time has not been reached.
Green
You have reached the minimum time for the speech.
Yellow
Begin your conclusion and prepare to finish.
Red
The maximum time has been reached; finish now.
Common speech timer presets
These presets are already available in the timer. You can edit any threshold before starting if your event uses different timing rules.
| Preset | Range | Signals | Useful for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Table Topics | 1–2 minutes | Green 1:00 · Yellow 1:30 · Red 2:00 | Impromptu answers and short speaking practice |
| Evaluation | 2–3 minutes | Green 2:00 · Yellow 2:30 · Red 3:00 | Speech evaluations and concise feedback |
| Ice Breaker | 4–6 minutes | Green 4:00 · Yellow 5:00 · Red 6:00 | Introductions and first prepared speeches |
| Prepared Speech | 5–7 minutes | Green 5:00 · Yellow 6:00 · Red 7:00 | Club speeches, presentations and rehearsals |
Choose a timer for your speaking format
The main timer works for any speech. These focused guides explain the recommended setup for a particular setting or type of talk.
Planning from a script? Estimate the delivery time with the words-to-minutes calculator before you rehearse.
Speech timer questions
How do I use the speech timer?
Choose a preset or enter your own green, yellow, red and overtime thresholds. Select Start Timer, then pause with the spacebar or the on-screen control. Reset when you are ready to begin another speech.
What do the green, yellow and red signals mean?
Green shows that the minimum speaking time has been reached. Yellow is the warning to begin wrapping up. Red marks the maximum time, and the darker overtime signal appears 30 seconds later on the built-in presets.
Can I set a custom time for a speech?
Yes. Select Custom and enter each threshold as minutes and seconds, total seconds, or a value such as 2m. The four times must increase in order from green through overtime.
Does the speaking timer work on phones and laptops?
Yes. It runs in a modern web browser on phones, tablets and computers. Fullscreen mode makes the color signal easier for a speaker or audience to see.
Is this speech timer free?
Yes. The timer is free to use without creating an account or installing an app.