20-20-20 eye break timer
The 20-20-20 rule of thumb says to look at something about 20 feet (6 metres) away for 20 seconds after every 20 minutes of screen time. Start the timer and leave this tab open; it shows a message when each break begins.
Runs in your browser: nothing you enter is sent anywhere.
How to use it
- Keep 20 minutes and 20 seconds or set your own.
- Press Start. Optionally tick the beep, or press Allow notifications.
- When the break starts, look at something far away until the countdown ends. The timer then goes back to screen time on its own.
How it works
The timer alternates two phases forever: screen time and a break. It works out the phase from the time since you pressed Start, so a delayed tick does not drift. Nothing is sent to a server.
Worked example
With the defaults, the first break begins 20 minutes after Start and lasts 20 seconds. The next break starts 20 minutes after that, so one full cycle is 20 minutes 20 seconds.
Good to know
Blinking often and adjusting screen distance and lighting also help. This tool is a reminder only.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 20-20-20 rule?
It is a rule of thumb to rest your eyes: every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet (about 6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds. It is a common suggestion, not a treatment.
How will I be told when a break starts?
A message appears at the top of the timer and the page title changes. You can also tick the beep, and press Allow notifications to get a system notification, which the browser only offers after you click.
Will it work if I switch to another tab?
The time is counted from the clock, so it stays correct. Browsers can delay sounds in a background tab, which is why the optional notification helps. Keep the tab open; the timer stops if you close it.
Can I change the times?
Yes. Set the minutes between breaks and the length of each break before you press Start. The fields lock while the timer runs.
Is this medical advice?
No. If your eyes hurt, are dry or your vision changes, see an eye care professional.