Interval timers are essential tools for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to optimize their training routine. These timers allow users to set specific time intervals for various activities such as rest, work, and recovery. With the proliferation of smartphones, interval timer apps have become a popular choice for many individuals. In this article, we will explore some of the best interval timer apps available for both Android and iOS platforms. We will discuss their features, usability, and overall performance to help you choose the right one for your needs.
We have compiled a list of 10 Best Interval Timer Apps For Android & iOS for your consideration, which have undergone rigorous testing and evaluation by our team of experts.
Table of Contents
10 Best Interval Timer Apps For Android & iOS
1. Interval Timer
This is an interval timer app that can be utilized for various workout activities such as cycling, running, lifting weights, stretching, boxing, MMA or HIT. It is free to use and can be relied upon. The app can be used on iOS4 and multitasking mode. It runs smoothly in the foreground, background, and even when the device is locked. It allows users to specify an overall time and program high/low intensity interval and rest time between sets. The app also allows users to play their song or playlist during their workout, post their workout to social media, and save settings as templates.
The app has customizable features such as the number of sets, countdown time, set time, low interval time, high interval time, rest time, first interval (low or high), sound volume, timer sounds, auto-lock, vibrate, pause during rest, playlist, and new each set. It also has an Apple Health feature that allows it to show heart rate in the Apple Watch app.
Monthly and annual subscriptions are available, and payment will be charged to the user’s iTunes account upon purchase confirmation. The subscription will automatically renew unless auto-renew is disabled at least 24 hours before the end of the current subscription period. Automatic renewals will be charged at the same price as the original subscription. Subscriptions can be managed by going to Account Settings on the App Store after purchase.
The app’s terms of use and privacy policy are available via links provided by iubenda.com.
2. Runtastic Timer
This is an interval timer app that can be utilized for various workout activities such as cycling, running, lifting weights, stretching, boxing, MMA or HIT. It is free to use and can be relied upon. The app can be used on iOS4 and multitasking mode. It runs smoothly in the foreground, background, and even when the device is locked. It allows users to specify an overall time and program high/low intensity interval and rest time between sets. The app also allows users to play their song or playlist during their workout, post their workout to social media, and save settings as templates.
The app has customizable features such as the number of sets, countdown time, set time, low interval time, high interval time, rest time, first interval (low or high), sound volume, timer sounds, auto-lock, vibrate, pause during rest, playlist, and new each set. It also has an Apple Health feature that allows it to show heart rate in the Apple Watch app.
Monthly and annual subscriptions are available, and payment will be charged to the user’s iTunes account upon purchase confirmation. The subscription will automatically renew unless auto-renew is disabled at least 24 hours before the end of the current subscription period. Automatic renewals will be charged at the same price as the original subscription. Subscriptions can be managed by going to Account Settings on the App Store after purchase.
The app’s terms of use and privacy policy are available via links provided by iubenda.com.
3. Periodic Timer
Crypto Pro is a bitcoin and cryptocurrency tracker that provides users with a range of features including news, alerts, and portfolio management for all traded cryptocurrencies and tokens. The Mac app offers dark and light modes, customizable price alerts, a news section for every coin, a currency conversion calculator, portfolio management with gain/loss calculation, a customizable list of favorite coins, the ability to compare prices across exchanges, and price and volume history graphs. Users can also sync the app with their iPhone and Apple Watch.
A Menu Bar widget is also available, which allows users to display their 1-5 favorite markets and customize the refresh time. Additionally, the app offers portfolio import through wallet addresses or exchange API keys. Crypto Pro offers full privacy, with personal data stored on user devices, backup and sync via iCloud or Dropbox accounts, and no user monitoring or analytics. The app supports a range of exchanges, including Coinbase, GDAX, Kraken, and Poloniex, with new exchanges added on demand.
Supported currencies include all fiat currencies, metals such as gold and silver, and over 5,000 tracked coins and tokens. New currencies are added as soon as they appear on exchanges. The app is free, but advanced users can subscribe to a $47.99/year auto-renewing subscription with a 7-day free trial. This includes features such as candlestick graphs with indicators, automatic portfolio import from exchanges and wallets, and more. Advanced features can also be unlocked for free by inviting friends to download the app.
The subscription automatically renews unless turned off in the user’s iTunes Account Settings at least 24 hours before the current period ends. Users can manage their subscription and turn off auto-renew in their Apple ID settings. The user’s iTunes Account will be charged when the purchase is confirmed. If the user subscribes before their free trial ends, the rest of the trial period will be forfeited as soon as the purchase is confirmed.
4. Tabata Stopwatch Pro
Tabata Stopwatch Pro is a comprehensive interval timer designed for people following the Tabata training method. It can be used for various interval training routines such as Tabata, HIIT, kettlebells, bodyweight exercises, interval running, and sprints. The app automates exercise, rest, cooldown, and other intervals to help users concentrate better and avoid constant counting. It comes with various beeps and voice support that identify different parts of a workout and announce intervals. Users can customize all intervals to match their pace, create and store their own interval presets, and select their favorite tracks from their iPod to work out to.
The app has two beautiful themes, and the color-coded display represents the amount of energy being used in an interval. It is simple to use, just push play, and it works on both iPhone and iPad. The Pro grade Tabata timer is ready to use out of the box, with Classic Tabata already set up for users. Users can customize initial countdown and warmup time, exercise, rest, recovery, and cooldown intervals, adjust the number of sets and cycles to match their pace, pause workouts, and jump between intervals in the middle of a workout as needed.
The app supports the Apple Health app and writes Tabata workout times, calorie burned estimates, and heart rates (needs a chest strap heart rate monitor and Pro purchase) after each workout. Some features of the app require a paid Pro Features In App Purchase, such as working in the background, no ads, access to announcement settings, the ability to use chest strap heart rate monitors, and more sounds. Users can find out more about these by clicking on the GET PRO button in the app settings on the top right.
Exercising can be extremely stressful for the body; therefore, users are advised to consult their doctor, trainer, or coach before using this app. The app does not aim to teach, coach or guide users with fitness, exercises, or working out.
5. Tabata Timer for HIIT
The Tabata Timer app is designed to facilitate high intensity interval training (HIIT) by offering an easy-to-use interface. This app is specifically tailored for Tabata Training, a form of HIIT that involves performing 20 seconds of hard work followed by 10 seconds of rest, typically for a total of 8 cycles.
The app comes loaded with several features that can help users customize their workout routine. These include configurable preparation, workout and rest durations, as well as the ability to set the number of cycles and tabatas (sets). The time display is clear, and users can choose from multiple display colors to suit their preferences.
One of the unique features of the Tabata Timer app is the ability to customize background music. Users can choose from a variety of tunes to keep them motivated during their workout. Additionally, the app allows users to record their daily workout history and track their performance. Notes can be added to remind users of their next exercise, and the app also allows users to record their weight and BMI.
6. Impetus Interval Timer
Impetus is an interval timer designed for various types of training including HIIT, Tabata, Crossfit, yoga, physical therapy, and more. It offers two modes of operation: basic and advanced. The user can either quickly set the timer in the basic mode, or customize the intervals using the advanced mode. In the advanced mode, the user can program any number of sets and timers, nest sets inside each other for big workouts, and use variable timers for pyramid sets.
All timers created in Impetus are saved automatically in the app for later use. The user can copy presets to quickly create new variations. Additionally, the user can customize their cues by using their own alert sounds, colors, and interval titles. For those who prefer text-to-speech, Impetus allows the device to call out interval changes.
Impetus Plus offers additional features such as the ability to play music playlists in sync with the work and rest intervals, and the ability to export presets to files for backup and sharing with friends. The app also offers a clear and comprehensive timer display, home screen shortcuts to presets for quick access, configurable countdown before the next interval, optional auto pause on any stage of the training set, and the option to start the timer by shaking the device. The app can be run in the background, and includes a mute option for background music player on alerts. It is ad-free and installable to SD card.
Those interested in supporting the development and unlocking all features can purchase Impetus Plus. The app can be followed on Twitter, visited on its blog, or interacted with on Facebook.
7. Visual Timer
Visual timers are an effective tool for improving productivity by setting clear boundaries for time management. A timer with simple features, such as the ability to count down and alert the user when time is up, is sufficient. Visual timers can also help users take short breaks throughout the day, which can increase productivity.
Choosing a simple countdown timer can improve productivity in a variety of ways, including regular exercise routines, staying focused, and taking power naps. For example, users can set the timer for their desired workout length and be alerted when it is time to move on to the next exercise. Visual timers can also help users stay on task and avoid distractions, or remind them to take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Finally, a Visual timer can ensure that power naps are limited to the optimal length of 15-20 minutes.
Visual timers are highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of situations. In addition to those mentioned above, users can utilize the timer in other ways, depending on their individual needs.
Visual Timer offers additional features that can make timing tasks even easier. With Reset and Start buttons, users have more control over the timer and can set it at any point to prepare for the countdown. They can also reset the timer as needed. This level of control is not always possible with physical timers.
8. Seconds – Interval Timer for HIIT & Tabata
Seconds is a mobile device interval timer that is widely recognized as the best choice for HIIT and Tabata training. It is recommended by celebrity trainers and personal trainers worldwide.
Before downloading, non-paying users should be aware that they may create as many timers as they wish, but once an interval timer is started, it cannot be used again. Upgrading to the full version removes this restriction.
Seconds offers a variety of features, including a large, easy-to-read color-coded display that can be viewed in either landscape or portrait mode. It also offers templates for HIIT, Tabata, and circuit training, as well as a custom template to create every interval. An additional compound editor enables the combination of multiple interval timers into one.
For added convenience, Seconds speaks your interval names and can even provide prior warning of the upcoming interval. Other alerts, such as beeps and bells, are also available. Additionally, it allows synchronization between your music and your workout, allowing each interval to have its own assigned music, matching the intensity of your HIIT workout.
Seconds runs in the background, thus allowing you to have your display off, or use other apps while the HIIT timer is active. Finally, you can export and import the Tabata timers, sharing them with friends or downloading them from the web and installing them in Seconds.
9. Interval Timer Free
The Interval Timer is a straightforward and user-friendly application. Its interface incorporates full-screen color coding, which enables users to quickly glance at it from a distance. The timer is suitable for various activities, including boxing, calisthenics, circuit and HIIT training, and Tabata.
The Interval Timer offers several features that users find favourable, including the ability to save presets for quick switching between different activities. Additionally, users can run the timer in the background while using other applications or with a locked screen. Moreover, the timer provides additional audio, vibration, or silent notifications. It works exceptionally well with music and headphones.
The Interval Timer requires permission to access the internet and network state since it is an ad-supported application. These permissions are necessary for displaying the ads.
10. Workout Timer for HIIT
The Tabata Timer: Interval Timer Workout Timer for HIIT is a free interval workout timer app designed for high intensity interval training (HIIT). The app offers a simple interface for beginners to start a workout in one click, while advanced users can fine-tune their workouts to fit their specific needs.
The app’s features include a very intuitive interface with large digits and bright customizable colors. Users can add descriptions and images to intervals and sets, configure intervals individually, and create sequences of workouts to run one after another. The app works in the background and shows the current progress in a notification when the screen is locked or another app is being used.
There are over 50 sounds available with the option to add your own, and a voice assistant with text-to-speech. Users can also adjust the volume in their music player while the timer sounds are playing. The app includes a metronome and allows any interval to be started in repetitions mode with tempo. Users can backup their workouts and settings, share workouts with friends, and filter workouts by type, favorites, color, and text. The app also offers shortcuts for workouts to start in one click from the launcher and the ability to choose the buttons shown on the timer screen.
The app works with wearable devices, including Wear OS, and integrates with Google Fit. It can be used for various high intensity interval training activities, including sprints, push-ups, jumping jacks, sit-ups, cycling, running, boxing, plank, weightlifting, martial arts, and other fitness activities. The app can even be used as a productivity timer to focus on work tasks.
Studies have shown that HIIT workouts burn more fat than regular training because they speed up metabolism within 24 hours after exercise. Production of growth hormone that affects the intensity of fat burning increases up to 450%. HIIT also accelerates metabolism, increases aerobic endurance, and increases the level of tissue oxygen consumption.