Chrome has no built-in timer, so anyone timing a meeting, a presentation or a focused work block usually opens a website or phone app instead. A timer extension keeps the clock visible in the toolbar or as an overlay, starts in one click and can alert you with a sound when time runs out, which is faster than switching tabs mid-task.
Timers for presentations and slides
A slides timer needs to stay visible over full-screen presentation mode, since a normal browser tab disappears once you start presenting. Look for an extension built specifically for this, with a large, readable countdown, adjustable position on screen and a way to set the time per slide or per section of a talk.
Countdown timers vs stopwatches
A countdown timer counts down from a set duration and alerts you at zero, useful for meetings, cooking or timed tests. A stopwatch counts up and suits tracking how long a task takes. Some extensions offer both plus a Pomodoro-style repeating cycle for focused work sessions with short breaks in between.
What to check before installing a timer extension
Check that the badge or popup shows the remaining time without needing to click, that the alert sound can be muted or changed, and that you can set custom durations rather than only fixed presets. A timer only needs basic permissions, so be cautious of one asking to read data on every website.