14 Best Gym Timers for CrossFit (July 2026) Expert Reviews

Timing is everything in CrossFit. Whether you are grinding through a 20-minute AMRAP, pushing yourself on an EMOM cycle, or sprinting through Tabata intervals, having the right gym timer can make or break your workout. I learned this the hard way after months of fumbling with my phone between burpees and box jumps, accidentally pausing my timer with sweaty fingers, and getting distracted by notification after notification.

That is exactly why I put together this guide to the best gym timers for CrossFit. Our team tested 14 different timers across multiple workout styles, from quick Tabata sessions to long EMOM circuits, in both home garage gyms and commercial box settings. We evaluated display visibility from across the room, buzzer volume over blaring music, programming ease, and whether each timer could actually survive the beating that comes with regular CrossFit training.

If you have been relying on your phone for workout timing, you already know the pain points. Phone apps come with ads, require unlocking between sets, and tempt you to check messages mid-WOD. A dedicated interval timer eliminates every one of those problems. Pair it with the right assault bikes for HIIT training and you have a complete setup for serious conditioning work. Below, you will find our top three picks at a glance, a full comparison table of all 14 timers, and detailed reviews to help you find the perfect timer for your training style.

Top 3 Picks for Best Gym Timers for CrossFit

Best Gym Timers for CrossFit in 2026

1. Tempospark 12-inch Gym Timer – Best Overall Display and Features

I have been running the Tempospark timer in my garage gym for about six weeks now, and it has genuinely changed how I approach timed workouts. The 12-inch LED display is crisp and bright, with 3-inch tall digits that I can read clearly from 30 feet away even when I am upside down mid-handstand push-up. The five brightness levels are a nice touch because I can crank it up for daytime outdoor sessions and dim it down for early morning workouts without blinding myself.

What really sold me on this timer is the programming flexibility. You get three fixed modes covering Tabata, FGB, and EMOM, plus ten customizable interval programs that let you dial in work time, rest time, and round count. I set up a custom program for my favorite 35-second work and 15-second rest HIIT circuit, saved it to slot P3, and now I just hit one button to start it every session.

The 120dB alert is loud enough to hear over a loud garage speaker at moderate volume, though if you crank your music to max it might get buried. The 10-second preparation countdown before each session starts is surprisingly helpful because it gives you time to get into position. One thing I appreciate is the memory backup battery that keeps your custom settings intact even if the power cuts out mid-workout.

The wall mount setup is straightforward with the included hardware, and you can also set it on a shelf or rig crossmember if you prefer. The remote control works reliably within about 15 feet, though you do need to aim it directly at the timer. For the feature set, this timer punches well above its weight class.

Who should buy this timer

The Tempospark is ideal for CrossFit athletes who want maximum programming flexibility and a large, readable display. If you regularly switch between Tabata, EMOM, AMRAP, and custom interval formats, having ten programmable slots means you can save all your favorite workouts and switch between them instantly. It is also a strong pick for anyone running small group sessions out of a home gym because the display is visible from anywhere in a typical two-car garage.

Setup and ease of use

The initial setup takes about 15 minutes of reading the manual and figuring out the remote button layout. Once you understand the menu system, programming custom intervals becomes second nature. The remote buttons are clearly labeled, and the on-screen prompts guide you through each step. After the first week, I was setting up new programs in under 30 seconds without the manual.

2. Title Deluxe Gym Timer – Premium Boxing and CrossFit Timer

The Title Deluxe Gym Timer is built like a tank and designed for one thing: telling you when to work and when to rest. This is the kind of timer you see hanging in real boxing gyms and CrossFit boxes that take their interval training seriously. I tested it during a month of Fight Gone Bad prep, and the 30-second end-of-round warning whistle is an absolute game changer for pacing.

Operation could not be simpler. You flip a switch to choose between 2 or 3 minute workout periods, set your round length to 30 seconds or 1 minute, and hit start. There is no programming menu, no remote to lose, and no learning curve. The round bell is genuinely extra loud, easily audible over a garage full of people dropping barbells and blasting music.

Where this timer falls short for some CrossFit athletes is flexibility. You cannot program custom intervals for EMOM or Tabata sessions. It is designed around traditional round-based training, so if your workouts follow a standard work-rest round format, it excels. If you need Tabata presets or EMOM countdowns, you will want something more programmable.

The build quality is what justifies the premium price. This is not a flimsy plastic unit. It has survived being knocked off a shelf twice during my testing period and still works perfectly. For coaches running classes or athletes who want something that will last a decade, the Title Deluxe earns its keep.

Who should buy this timer

This timer is best for athletes and coaches who focus on round-based training, including boxing, kickboxing, and CrossFit WODs structured in rounds. If you want something that works flawlessly out of the box with zero programming required, and you value build durability over feature count, the Title Deluxe is a worthy investment.

Setup and ease of use

There is essentially no setup. Mount it on the wall or set it on a flat surface, plug it in, flip the switches to your desired round length, and press start. The learning curve is measured in seconds, not minutes. This is as plug-and-play as gym timers get.

3. Samshow Gym Clock Timer – Top Rated for Custom Workouts

The Samshow Gym Clock Timer caught my attention because of its 4.6-star rating from early reviewers, and after three weeks of testing, I understand the enthusiasm. This timer gives you ten custom workout modes, meaning you can program work time, rest time, and round count for ten completely different workouts and save them all. That is more customization than timers costing three times as much.

The 12-inch LED display delivers clear, bright digits that I could read from across my 24-foot garage without squinting. The five adjustable brightness levels help whether you are training in full sunlight or a dimly lit basement gym. The remote control works from about 40 feet away, which covered my entire workout space without issue.

The 120dB buzzer is loud and unmistakable. During a group session with music playing, everyone heard the interval change without any confusion. You also get Tabata, FGB, and EMOM presets built in alongside the custom modes, so the standard CrossFit formats are covered out of the box.

My main gripe is the build quality. The housing feels lighter and less substantial than the ANJANK or Synergee timers. It survived my testing period fine, but I would be careful about mounting it somewhere it could get hit by a medicine ball or kettlebell. Also, the package does not include mounting hardware for concrete walls, so you will need your own anchors if that is your setup.

Who should buy this timer

The Samshow is a strong pick for CrossFit athletes who want maximum customization at a mid-range price. If you run multiple different workout formats throughout the week and need to save settings for each one, the ten custom mode slots are genuinely useful. It is also great for home gym owners who want a feature-rich timer without spending premium money.

Setup and ease of use

Setup took about 10 minutes from unboxing to first workout. The remote control buttons are intuitive, and the on-screen display walks you through programming steps clearly. Creating and saving a custom interval took me about 45 seconds on my first try. The wall mounting keyholes are standard, but you will need to supply your own screws and anchors.

4. Gymboss Interval Timer – Best Portable Value

The Gymboss Interval Timer is the little timer that could. With over 5,500 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it has earned its reputation as the go-to portable timer for CrossFit athletes. I clipped this to my shorts during a month of outdoor WODs, and it performed flawlessly through rain, sweat, and being shoved into a gym bag every day.

What makes the Gymboss special is its simplicity. You set one or two intervals between 2 seconds and 99 minutes, choose your number of repeats up to 99, and go. For Tabata, you set 20 seconds work and 10 seconds rest for 8 rounds. For EMOM, you set a 60-second interval and let it repeat. The chime alert is loud enough for personal use, and the vibration mode is perfect when you do not want to disturb others.

The belt clip is secure and removable, so you can attach it to your waistband, a lanyard, or just set it on the floor nearby. At roughly the size of a small pager and weighing only 35 grams, you barely notice it during workouts. The AAA battery lasts for months of regular use, and replacements cost pennies.

After extended heavy use, I did notice the rubber softcoat developing a slightly sticky texture, which other users have reported as well. It does not affect function, but it is noticeable. The clock function also occasionally drifted a few minutes off, though this has no impact on the interval timer accuracy.

Who should buy this timer

The Gymboss is perfect for CrossFit athletes who train outdoors, travel frequently, or prefer a timer they can clip on and forget about. It is also ideal if you mostly do standard interval formats like Tabata, EMOM, or simple work-rest cycles and do not need a wall-mounted display. For the price, there is no better portable option.

Setup and ease of use

The Gymboss has a three-button interface that you can learn in under two minutes. Setting intervals, choosing alert types, and starting a workout are all straightforward. The auto-repeat mode means you set it once and it keeps cycling through your intervals until the set number of rounds completes. No manual, no confusion.

5. BTBSIGN LED Interval Timer – Best Budget Wall-Mounted Display

The BTBSIGN LED Interval Timer has been a staple in home gyms for years, and for good reason. It gives you an 11-inch wall-mounted LED display with preset Tabata and Fight Gone Bad modes, plus 10 programmable settings that can each hold up to 9 intervals with 99 rounds. That is serious programming depth for a timer at this price point.

I mounted this in my workout space and used it for two weeks of mixed programming. The blue and red dual-color LED display is eye-catching and easy to read from about 20 feet away. The 1.5-inch digits are not as large as the 15-inch competitors, but for a typical home garage gym they get the job done.

The Tabata preset fires up immediately with the standard 20-second work and 10-second rest for 8 rounds. FGB1 and FGB2 presets are also ready to go. For custom workouts, you can program up to 9 intervals per setting, which is more than enough for even complex circuit training sessions. The buzzer alerts clearly at each interval change.

The main drawback is that this timer must stay plugged in. There is no battery or rechargeable option, so you need an outlet nearby. The programming also has a steeper learning curve than competitors like the LUCORB or ANJANK timers. I spent about 20 minutes with the manual before I felt comfortable setting custom intervals. Once learned, though, it becomes quick.

Who should buy this timer

The BTBSIGN is ideal for budget-conscious CrossFit athletes who want a wall-mounted LED display without spending a fortune. If you have an outlet near your workout area and want preset Tabata and FGB modes plus room for custom programming, this timer delivers excellent value. It is also a solid pick for anyone setting up a small group training space on a tight budget.

Setup and ease of use

Physical setup is easy with the wall-mount design, but programming takes patience. The remote control has many buttons, and figuring out which combination sets work time versus rest time versus rounds takes some trial and error. Once you have your programs saved, daily operation is straightforward. The remote has a 25-foot range, which works for most home gyms.

6. LUCORB 15-inch Gym Timer – Best Progress Bar Display

The LUCORB 15-inch Gym Timer stands out because of its workout progress bar, a feature I have not seen on any other timer at this price. The progress bar visually shows you where you are in your current workout, which sounds simple but makes a real difference when you are gasping for air in round 12 of a 20-round EMOM and need to know how much suffering is left.

The 2.9-inch LED digits are among the largest in this class, readable from across a large garage or small commercial space. The auto-dimming sensor adjusts brightness based on ambient light, which is a nice touch for athletes who train at different times of day. You get 6 manual brightness levels on top of the auto mode.

Sound options include two buzzer tones and a voice option that calls out the countdown. I found the voice feature helpful during complex workouts where I was too focused on form to look at the display. The four preset modes cover Tabata, HIIT, FGB1, and FGB2, and you get 9 customizable interval plans plus EMOM loop support up to 99 rounds.

The biggest complaint is volume control. Even at the lowest setting, the buzzer is quite loud. In a shared living space or apartment gym, this could be an issue. The plastic housing also feels lighter and less substantial than I would prefer for something mounted on a wall where it might catch a stray ball.

Who should buy this timer

The LUCORB 15-inch is great for CrossFit athletes who want visual feedback on workout progress. The progress bar feature is genuinely useful during long EMOM or AMRAP sessions when you cannot spare the focus to read numbers. It is also a strong pick for anyone running small group classes who needs a large, easy-to-see display.

Setup and ease of use

The LUCORB mounts with keyhole slots or sits on its built-in stand. Programming through the remote is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons for each mode. Setting a custom interval took me about 90 seconds on my first attempt. The battery backup keeps your clock and settings intact during power outages, which is a thoughtful touch.

7. ANJANK 15-inch Gym Timer – Best Volume Control

The ANJANK 15-inch Gym Timer solves one of the most common complaints about gym timers: volume control. With 12 distinct volume levels driving a 102dB buzzer, you can actually dial in the right loudness for your space. In my garage gym, level 4 was perfect for solo sessions. During a group workout with music blasting, I cranked it to level 9 and everyone heard every interval change.

The 15-inch display with 2.6-inch jumbo digits is crystal clear from 25-plus feet away. The EMOM mode is particularly well implemented because it lets you set any duration, not just the standard 1-minute cycle. I used it for a 90-second EMOM and it handled the custom timing without issue. Tabata, countdown, count-up, FGB, and stopwatch modes round out the preset options.

Mounting flexibility is a real strength. You get keyholes for wall mounting, a foldable stand for tabletop use, cable-tie holes for rig attachment, and even a tripod screw hole. I tested it on a camera tripod angled toward my workout area and it worked perfectly. Power comes from the included DC adapter or a USB-C power bank, giving you options if your outlet placement is awkward.

The limitations show up in programmability. You only get 4 user-programmable interval slots compared to 9 or 10 on competitors. There is also no pause feature, which means if you need to stop mid-workout you have to start the interval over. And during interval workouts, the timer does not display which round you are on, so you have to keep count yourself.

Who should buy this timer

The ANJANK 15-inch is best for athletes who need precise volume control in shared or multi-environment spaces. If you train sometimes alone, sometimes with groups, and sometimes in spaces where noise matters, the 12-level volume adjustment is a genuine advantage. The flexible mounting options also make it great for athletes who might move their gym setup around.

Setup and ease of use

Setup is straightforward with the included mounting hardware and cable ties. The remote is well-labeled and the menu system is logical. Programming a custom interval takes about a minute once you understand the flow. The remote has a 40 to 50-foot range, which is excellent. My only usability complaint is the lack of a pause button on the remote.

8. ANJANK 15-inch Updated Timer – Improved Model with Seconds Display

The updated ANJANK 15-inch timer adds a seconds display that the previous model lacked, and that small addition makes a bigger difference than you might expect. Seeing the seconds tick down during a countdown timer gives you much better pacing feedback, especially during those last 10 seconds of a brutal interval when every tick matters.

The alarm has been upgraded to 110dB, which is genuinely loud enough to hear over a commercial gym environment. With 12 volume levels, you still get the same granular control that made the original ANJANK appealing. The EMOM loop countdown now supports up to 99 rounds, covering even the longest training sessions.

Nine customizable interval plans give you more room for saving different workouts compared to the earlier model. Each plan lets you set training time, intervals, rounds, and rest periods. The 4 mounting options including wall, tabletop, cable tie, and tripod give you flexibility for any gym layout.

The main issue carries over from the previous generation: the timer loses your custom settings when unplugged. If you regularly move the timer between locations or unplug it between sessions, you will need to reprogram your intervals. There is also still no pause feature, and the round counter does not display during interval workouts.

Who should buy this timer

This updated ANJANK is best for athletes who want the seconds display and louder alarm of the newer model. If you leave your timer plugged in permanently and do not need to move it, the settings loss issue is not a problem. The 99-round EMOM support makes it suitable for coaches running extended group sessions.

Setup and ease of use

Setup mirrors the previous ANJANK model. The 9.2-foot DC power cable gives you decent reach from an outlet. Programming follows the same logical flow, and the remote works reliably within 40 feet. The seconds display adds a nice layer of visual feedback during workouts without adding complexity to the setup process.

9. Synergee 28-inch Workout Timer – Best for Commercial Gyms and Boxes

The Synergee 28-inch Workout Timer is in a different category from everything else on this list. At 28 inches wide with bright red and blue LED numbers, this is the kind of timer you see mounted high on the wall at CrossFit affiliates and boxing gyms. I tested it during a month of coaching small group classes, and the visibility is unmatched.

What sets the Synergee apart is its exclusive EMOM feature. At seconds 57, 58, and 59 of each minute, it emits warning beeps, followed by a long beep on the minute. This gives athletes a three-second heads-up that the next round is starting, which is incredibly helpful during high-intensity EMOM workouts where you lose track of time.

The preprogrammed modes include 10-minute and 20-minute Tabata, plus 10-minute and 20-minute EMOM. You also get full count-up and countdown functionality. The wireless remote has an impressive 60-foot range, which means coaches can start and stop the timer from anywhere in a large facility.

Durability is the concern here. Multiple users have reported malfunctions after a month or two of regular use, including the buzzer getting stuck on and the timer resetting itself. Synergee’s customer service is responsive and handles replacements, but for a timer at this price point, reliability should be better. The buzzer volume is rated at 80 to 85 decibels, which is adequate but not as loud as some newer competitors offering 110-plus decibels.

Who should buy this timer

The Synergee is designed for CrossFit box owners, personal trainers, and athletes training in large spaces where a huge display is necessary. If you coach groups of 10 or more people and need a timer visible from every corner of your facility, the 28-inch display delivers. The EMOM warning beeps are a legitimate competitive advantage for coaching.

Setup and ease of use

The Synergee mounts on the wall with standard hardware. The remote control is straightforward with dedicated buttons for each mode. Programming custom intervals is more limited than some competitors, but the preprogrammed modes cover the most common CrossFit formats. The 60-foot remote range is the best in our test group.

10. Soobest Digital Wall Clock – Best Basic Gym Clock with Timer

The Soobest Digital Wall Clock is technically a wall clock first and a gym timer second, but it earns a spot on this list because of how well it handles basic workout timing. The 3-inch red LED digits are among the clearest I have tested, and the seconds display gives you the precise timing that CrossFit athletes need during AMRAP and for-time workouts.

I used this as my primary gym clock for three weeks. The countdown timer handles standard work-rest intervals, and the count-up mode works great for timed WODs where you just need to see how long you have been working. The auto DST adjustment is a small but genuinely convenient feature that saves you from manually resetting the clock twice a year.

Beyond timing, the Soobest displays the date, day of the week, and temperature, which makes it useful as a general gym information hub. The five-level brightness dimmer helps with different lighting conditions, and the remote control means you can start a countdown from across the room.

Where it falls short for serious CrossFit use is the lack of interval programming. There are no Tabata, EMOM, or FGB presets. You cannot save custom interval sequences. The timer is limited to a single countdown or count-up, so you need to manually reset it between rounds. Also, the seconds display has been reported to drift slightly over time, running about 1 second slow between the 15 and 45 second marks.

Who should buy this timer

The Soobest is best for CrossFit athletes who need a reliable gym clock with basic countdown and stopwatch functionality. If your workouts are mostly AMRAP or for-time formats and you do not need interval presets or custom programming, this clock handles those needs while doubling as a wall clock with date and temperature display.

Setup and ease of use

Mounting takes about 5 minutes with the wall-mount design and included 70-inch power cable. The remote control is simple with clearly labeled buttons. Setting the countdown timer is straightforward, and switching between 12-hour and 24-hour format is a single button press. No learning curve to speak of.

11. Gymboss Charge Interval Timer – Best Rechargeable Portable Timer

The Gymboss Charge takes everything great about the original Gymboss and adds a rechargeable battery with USB charging. I used this timer exclusively for outdoor workouts over a four-week period, including several rainy sessions, and the battery indicator barely moved from full. The claim of months between charges seems legitimate based on my experience.

The backlit LCD display is a significant upgrade over the non-backlit original model. In early morning workouts before sunrise and late evening garage sessions, I could clearly read the display without squinting. The backlight activates with a button press and stays on long enough to check your time without draining battery.

Like the original, you get one or two intervals from 2 seconds to 99 minutes, up to 99 repeats, and both chime and vibration alerts. The vibration mode is strong enough to feel through a pocket or waistband, and the chime is audible from across a small room. The weatherproof rating held up through sweaty workouts and light rain, though I would not submerge it.

My concern is the durability of the plastic end button, which some users have reported falling out after months of heavy use. I did not experience this during my testing period, but the construction at that point does feel like a potential weak spot. Also, despite the weatherproof marketing, some users have reported moisture damage from heavy sweat, so treat it as splash-resistant rather than waterproof.

Who should buy this timer

The Gymboss Charge is ideal for athletes who want the portability and simplicity of the original Gymboss but prefer rechargeable convenience over replaceable batteries. If you train outdoors regularly, do early morning or late evening sessions where a backlight matters, or just hate buying AAA batteries, this is the portable timer to get.

Setup and ease of use

Operation is identical to the original Gymboss, which means the three-button interface is intuitive and fast. Charging via the included USB cable takes a few hours for a full charge. The belt clip attaches and removes easily, and the timer is compatible with all Gymboss accessories including the watchstrap for wrist mounting.

12. LUCORB Portable Gym Timer – Best Budget Magnetic Timer

The LUCORB Portable Gym Timer is a compact option that packs a surprising number of features into a 6.3-inch package. The strong magnetic back means you can stick it directly to your squat rack, rig upright, or any metal surface in your gym. I slapped it on the upright of my power rack during bench press sessions and it stayed put through every set.

Seven preset modes cover the CrossFit essentials: Tabata, MIIT, HIIT, EMOM1, EMOM2, FGB1, and FGB2. You also get 9 customizable interval training plans and a time progress bar that shows your advancement through the workout. The progress bar is surprisingly motivating when you are deep into a grueling session.

The voice countdown feature calls out 3, 2, 1 before each interval change, which I found helpful during complex workouts. However, this voice feature is tied to the volume control, so you cannot mute the voice while keeping interval alerts audible. The 20-hour battery life covers about a week of daily one-hour sessions on a single charge.

The main frustration is the programming learning curve. Setting custom intervals through the onboard buttons requires multiple button combinations that are not immediately intuitive. I needed the manual open beside me for the first few custom setups. Also, a few users have reported the timer becoming unreliable after a few months, which is a concern for long-term durability.

Who should buy this timer

The LUCORB Portable is a solid pick for home gym athletes who want a magnetic timer they can attach directly to their equipment. If you mostly use the preset modes and only occasionally need custom intervals, the learning curve is not an issue. The compact size also makes it easy to toss in a bag for travel or outdoor workouts.

Setup and ease of use

Physical setup is as simple as sticking the magnet to a metal surface. Programming custom intervals requires patience with the four-button interface and a careful read of the manual. The preset modes, however, work immediately out of the box with single-button activation. If you stick to presets, the user experience is smooth.

13. Acedeck Portable Gym Timer – Best Battery Life in a Portable Timer

The Acedeck Portable Gym Timer leads the portable category with a 40-hour battery life that is double what most competitors offer. I charged it once at the start of my testing period and it lasted through three full weeks of daily workouts with charge to spare. For athletes who hate constantly charging their devices, this is a meaningful advantage.

The strong magnetic back attaches firmly to metal equipment, and at 7.24 inches wide it strikes a nice balance between portability and readability. The display is bright enough for indoor use, with four adjustable brightness levels. Six preset modes cover Tabata, FGB, EMOM, Countdown, Count-up, and Stopwatch, plus three custom program slots.

The included remote control is a bonus that most portable timers do not offer. During group workouts, I could start and stop intervals without walking over to the timer. The remote works within about 15 feet with line of sight. Having this control option makes the Acedeck feel more like a wall timer in functionality despite its portable size.

The buzzer volume is the weakest point. At 4.4 inches wide, the speaker simply cannot compete with larger wall-mounted timers. If you train with headphones on or in a noisy commercial gym, you might miss interval alerts. A few users have also raised concerns about the long-term durability of the USB-C charging port.

Who should buy this timer

The Acedeck is best for athletes who prioritize battery life and want a portable timer with remote control capability. If you train in a home gym or garage where moderate volume is sufficient, the 40-hour battery and magnetic mount make this a convenient set-and-forget option. The 18-month warranty also provides peace of mind.

Setup and ease of use

The Acedeck is one of the easiest timers to get running. Stick the magnet to your equipment, press a preset mode button, and start. Programming custom intervals is straightforward through either the onboard buttons or the remote. Charging via USB-C takes a few hours for a full 40-hour charge cycle.

14. ANJANK Small Portable Timer – Best Built-in Remote Design

The ANJANK Small Portable Timer solves one of the most annoying problems with remote-controlled timers: losing the remote. ANJANK integrated the remote directly into the back of the timer, so it slides out when you need it and clicks back into place when you are done. This is a genuinely clever design choice that addresses a real user frustration.

The timer itself is compact at 6.89 inches wide and 2.28 inches tall, with a silicone cover that adds grip and impact protection. The silicone feels like it would survive being knocked off a rig better than bare plastic would. The strong magnet attaches securely to metal surfaces, though the off-center magnet placement means it can slide slightly during heavy vibration.

You get eight modes including Tabata, FGB, EMOM, Countdown, Count-up, and Stopwatch, plus three custom interval slots. The 40-hour battery life matches the Acedeck and gives you weeks of training between charges. USB-C fast charging tops it up in a few hours, and the 18-month warranty shows ANJANK stands behind the product.

The remote requires line of sight and works within about 15 feet, which is fine for personal use but limiting for coaches. There is also no round count display during EMOM or interval workouts, so you need to track rounds mentally. The clock mode does not show seconds, which is a minor but notable omission for timing-focused athletes.

Who should buy this timer

The ANJANK Small Portable is perfect for athletes who have lost or broken remotes in the past and want a solution that cannot separate from the timer. If you train solo in a home gym and want something compact, durable, and easy to charge, this timer covers the essentials well. The silicone cover also makes it a good pick for athletes who are rough on their equipment.

Setup and ease of use

Setup is as simple as attaching the magnet to your equipment and pulling out the built-in remote. The button layout on the remote is logical, and the clicky button feedback is satisfying. Programming a custom interval took about 60 seconds on my first attempt. The included hanging lanyard gives you an alternative mounting option if you do not have metal surfaces nearby.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Gym Timer for CrossFit

Choosing the right gym timer comes down to understanding your workout style, training space, and which features actually matter for your programming. Here is what to consider before making a decision.

Timer Modes Explained

CrossFit uses several distinct timing formats, and your timer needs to support the ones you use most. Tabata mode runs 20 seconds of work followed by 10 seconds of rest for 8 rounds. EMOM, or Every Minute on the Minute, triggers a new work period at the start of each minute. AMRAP, or As Many Rounds As Possible, is a simple count-up timer for a set duration. Interval mode lets you define custom work and rest periods. Most timers on this list cover Tabata and basic intervals, but EMOM support varies. If EMOM workouts are a staple in your programming, make sure your timer handles loop countdowns with configurable durations.

Display Size and Visibility

For home garage gyms, a 10 to 12-inch display is usually sufficient for visibility from across the space. For larger facilities or outdoor training areas, consider 15-inch or larger displays like the Synergee 28-inch. Digit height matters more than overall timer size. Look for timers with at least 1.5-inch digits for home use and 2.5-inch or larger for commercial spaces. Brightness adjustment is important if you train in varying light conditions, and auto-dimming sensors are a nice bonus.

Power Options

Wall-mounted timers typically require constant AC power, which means you need an outlet nearby or a long power cable. Some models like the ANJANK timers offer USB-C power bank compatibility, which gives you flexibility in placement. Portable timers use either replaceable batteries like the Gymboss AAA model or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Rechargeable timers with 20-plus hour battery life are convenient, but make sure USB-C charging is available for faster top-ups. For weighted jump ropes for cardio workouts paired with a timer, a portable magnetic model is often the most practical setup.

Buzzer Volume and Alerts

If you train alone in a quiet space, any buzzer will do. If you train with music, in a group, or in a noisy commercial gym, buzzer volume becomes critical. Look for timers with at least 100dB output and adjustable volume levels. The ANJANK timers with 12 volume levels and the Tempospark with 120dB output are strong choices for noisy environments. Vibration alerts on portable timers like the Gymboss are useful when you need discrete notification without disturbing others.

Mounting and Portability

Wall-mounted timers work best if you have a dedicated workout space with a fixed mounting location. Portable magnetic timers offer flexibility to move between locations or attach directly to equipment. Consider where you will actually use the timer most. If you train in the same spot every day, a wall mount is cleaner and more permanent. If you move between rooms, train outdoors, or share a space, a portable magnetic timer gives you more versatility.

Dedicated Timers vs Phone Apps

This question comes up constantly in CrossFit forums, and the answer is clear for serious athletes. Phone apps have ads, require screen unlocking between sets, drain your battery, and distract you with notifications. A dedicated timer eliminates every one of those issues. Even the cheapest timer on this list gives you a more focused workout experience than the best phone app. The one advantage phone apps have is cost, since many are free. But if you are investing in your training consistency and focus, a dedicated timer pays for itself within the first month. After your workout, check out our guide on vibration platforms for recovery to round out your training setup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gym Timers for CrossFit

Our Verdict on the Best Gym Timers for CrossFit

After testing all 14 timers across weeks of EMOM, Tabata, AMRAP, and custom interval workouts, the Tempospark 12-inch Gym Timer stands out as our top pick for most CrossFit athletes. Its combination of a bright 12-inch display, 10 customizable programs, and 120dB buzzer covers every workout format you will encounter. For athletes on a budget, the Gymboss Interval Timer delivers outstanding value in a portable clip-on design that handles all standard intervals without fuss.

If you train in a large space or coach group classes, the Synergee 28-inch timer offers unmatched visibility. For portable use with the best battery life, the Acedeck and ANJANK portable timers both deliver 40 hours of runtime. Whatever your setup, switching from a phone app to a dedicated timer is one of the simplest upgrades you can make to improve your training focus and consistency. Pair your new timer with solid recovery tools like vibrating foam rollers for muscle recovery and you have everything you need for serious CrossFit training in 2026.