Egg Timer
This egg timer starts at 6 minutes for a jammy result using the boiling-water method. Adjust it to 4 minutes for a softer yolk or about 9 for firmer eggs, then cool them promptly. Egg size, starting temperature and altitude can change the result.
Tip: press Space to start or pause, R to reset, F for full screen.
About the Egg Timer
Use the egg timer with one consistent cooking method, then adjust by a minute next time for your preferred yolk.
An egg timer is only useful when the starting method is clear. This page assumes you lower refrigerated eggs into already-boiling water and start the clock immediately. Egg size, starting temperature and altitude can shift the result.
Use the table below as a starting point, cool the eggs when the alarm rings, and record the time that works with your pan and stove.
Boiled egg times by doneness
| Result | Starting time | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Soft | 4–5 minutes | Set white and runny yolk |
| Jammy | 6–7 minutes | Set white and soft centre |
| Firm | 8–10 minutes | Firm yolk throughout |
These are practical starting points, not a food-safety guarantee. The USDA advises thorough cooking for people at higher risk and explains safe handling in its shell egg guidance.
Tip: Use eggs of the same size in one batch so they finish together.
Tip: Move cooked eggs into cold water promptly to slow further cooking.
Tip: Write down the result and change the next timer by 30 to 60 seconds instead of guessing.
What changes the cooking time?
- Egg size: larger eggs usually need longer.
- Starting temperature: room-temperature eggs heat faster than refrigerated eggs.
- Altitude and boil strength: lower boiling temperatures can extend cooking.
- Batch size: adding many cold eggs can cool the water temporarily.
For a cold-water method, follow that recipe's timing instead. USDA's covered-pan method, for example, uses a longer standing time after the water reaches a boil.
How to Use the Egg Timer
- Pick how you like themSoft and runny around 4 minutes, jammy medium at 6, firm hard-boiled at 8 to 9.
- Start when the water boilsLower the eggs into already-boiling water, press Start, and let the full-screen countdown run.
- Get on with breakfastThe countdown remains tied to its finish time. Keep the page open and use a dedicated backup when exact cooking alerts matter.
- Cool them fastDrop the eggs into cold water at the alarm to stop the cooking and make them easier to peel.
Related on timer.now: cooking timer, kitchen timer, multi-timer and how to use a timer for cooking.
Browse all online timer tools by activity and timer type.
For audible alerts, keep the page open and test the sound. Browser alarm limits.
Best Uses for the Egg Timer
About 4 to 5 minutes for a runny yolk and set white.
Around 6 to 7 minutes for a soft, sticky yolk.
8 to 10 minutes for a firm yolk right through.
Time poached eggs, tea and anything else on the stove.
Egg Timer Compared With Similar Timers
| Tool | Choose it when |
|---|---|
| Cooking Timer | you need a flexible timer for any recipe |
| Kitchen Timer | you are timing a non-egg kitchen task |
| Multi-Timer | you are cooking several batches or dishes |
Related Online Timers
Egg Timer - FAQ
How long should I boil an egg?
When do I start the egg timer?
Does the alarm work if I switch tabs?
Do all egg cooking methods use the same time?
Can I use this as my only food-safety check?
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