What is a simple and convenient timer for Windows that’s similar to gestimer on macOS?
Hello. On macOS, there’s a convenient timer called gestimer that allows you to start a timer in literally two movements: click on it and drag to set the desired time. Could you please advise if there’s a similar application for Windows or at least a very simple timer that doesn’t require multiple clicks to start?
Gestimer for Windows — A direct analog with intuitive drag-and-drop from the menu for setting a timer. Although Windows doesn’t have an exact copy of Gestimer, there are several simple timers with similar functionality.
Table of Contents
- Gestimer Alternatives for Windows
- Best Simple Timers for Windows
- How to Create Similar Functionality
- Comparison of Popular Timers
- Conclusion
Gestimer Alternatives for Windows
Direct analogs of Gestimer for Windows don’t exist with the function of dragging an icon from the menu bar to set a timer. However, there are several applications that offer similar simple ways to create timers:
- SnapTimer - A free timer for Windows with an intuitive interface
- Simple Screen Timer - Allows dragging the timer around the screen during use
- Windows Clock - A built-in application with a simple interface
Best Simple Timers for Windows
SnapTimer
SnapTimer is one of the best options for users looking for simplicity. The application has:
- A clear and intuitive interface
- Ability to customize appearance
- Works independently without the need for registration
- Minimal settings after installation
According to SnapTimer reviews, “the controls are designed for quick access, allowing you to configure the desired countdown with minimal effort” source.
Windows Clock (built-in)
The built-in Windows Clock application offers:
- Simple interface with “Add new timer” button
- Ability to set timer duration
- Integration with system notifications
- Available without installing additional software
As noted by Digital Citizen, “adding a new timer is simple: click or tap the ‘Add new timer’ (+) button in the bottom-right corner of the window” source.
Simple Screen Timer
Features of Simple Screen Timer:
- Free for Windows and Mac
- Ability to drag the timer during use (right-click and drag)
- Simple interface without extra features
- Automatic timer window updates
The description states: “Drag the timer while in use: right-click on the timer and drag it to the desired position” source.
How to Create Similar Functionality
If you specifically need the drag-and-drop functionality for setting time, you can consider the following options:
Using drag-and-drop in existing applications
Some applications offer drag-and-drop for managing timers:
- timeBuzzer - “to edit, click on them — or even faster — use drag-and-drop” source
- Teamwork.com Timer - “drag existing tasks into the Timer app using drag-and-drop” source
Configuring mouse for easier work
In Windows, you can configure the Click Lock function, which allows using single clicks as dragging:
- Open Control Panel → Mouse
- Go to the “Buttons” tab
- Check “Enable click locking”
- Click “Settings” to configure hold time
As explained by MDTechVideos, “Click Lock in Windows allows you to use single clicks as if you’re performing a drag” source.
Comparison of Popular Timers
| Application | Ease of Use | Drag-and-drop | Free | Built-in to Windows |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SnapTimer | High | No | Yes | No |
| Windows Clock | Medium | No | Yes | Yes |
| Simple Screen Timer | High | Partially (position) | Yes | No |
| timeBuzzer | Medium | Yes (editing) | Trial | No |
| Teamwork Timer | Medium | Yes (management) | Trial | No |
As shown in the table, no application offers a complete analog of the menu bar icon dragging function as in Gestimer, but SnapTimer and Simple Screen Timer are the simplest alternatives for quickly starting timers.
Conclusion
Although Windows doesn’t have an exact analog of Gestimer with the icon dragging function from the menu bar, there are several excellent alternatives:
- SnapTimer — the best choice for those looking for a simple, free application with minimal settings
- Windows Clock — a built-in solution that doesn’t require installing additional software
- Simple Screen Timer — a good alternative with the ability to drag the timer around the screen
To further simplify work, you can also configure the Click Lock function in Windows, which will make creating timers more intuitive. If the drag-and-drop functionality for setting time is critically important for you, you might consider using a virtual machine with macOS to work with Gestimer.