Free Pomodoro Timer — The 25/5 Focus Technique
July 5, 2026
The Pomodoro Technique, invented by Francesco Cirillo in 1987, is one of the most effective focus methods: work in 25-minute sprints with 5-minute breaks, then take a longer 15-30 minute break every 4 cycles. AHX's free Pomodoro timer runs in your browser with no signup, no ads, and no tracking.
The classic Pomodoro cycle
- • Work: 25 minutes (one "Pomodoro")
- • Short break: 5 minutes
- • Repeat 4 times (4 Pomodoros = ~2 hours)
- • Long break: 15-30 minutes after every 4 Pomodoros
- • Reset counter at end of day
Why 25 minutes?
25 minutes is short enough that you can push through any "I don't feel like it" friction, but long enough to get into a flow state. The 5-minute break is short enough that you don't lose context, but long enough to stand up, drink water, and rest your eyes.
Customizing the cycle
AHX's timer supports custom work/break lengths. Common variations: 50/10 (deep work), 90/20 (ultradian rhythm), 15/3 (ADHD-friendly). The default 25/5 is just the most-studied starting point — experiment to find what works for you.
Browser notifications
AHX's Pomodoro timer can send desktop notifications when the work session ends, so you don't have to keep the tab focused. The timer also continues running if you switch tabs (it uses timestamp diffing, not setInterval, so it stays accurate even if the browser throttles background tabs).
Pair it with a task list
The technique works best when each Pomodoro has a single task. Before starting the timer, write down what you intend to finish in those 25 minutes. If you finish early, use the remaining time to review or polish. If you don't finish, that's information — break the task into smaller pieces.