The Web Timer is a flexible manual tracking tool that lets you record your time, productivity, and projects directly from your browser—no installation required. Whether used as a standalone tool or alongside the DeskTime desktop app, it provides a seamless way to manage your tasks. You can learn more about the differences between manual and automatic time tracking here.
You can find it on the left-hand side of your DeskTime dashboard. Once opened, you can drag the widget anywhere on your screen for easy access.
Using the timer without installing the Desktime app
Unlike the desktop app, the Web Timer must be started and stopped manually. Keep in mind that the timer does not stop when logging out of the DeskTime web or closing the computer. The timer will not stop if you log out of the web dashboard or shut down your computer. It will track continuously for up to 24 hours before stopping automatically.
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Starting & Details: Click the Start icon to begin. You can add a description, project, or task immediately, or update these details at any point while the timer is running.
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Stopping your Session: When you click the Stop icon, you have two options:
Stop and Save: Saves your progress to your timeline. Delete: Discards the current session if it was started by mistake.
Tip: Before saving, you can use the slider to adjust your tracked time or add missing project detail
- The Maximize View: Click the Maximize icon to open a pop-up window. From here, you can update your project/task details or delete the session.
Key Features and Limitations
Manual Descriptions: Because the Web Timer does not automatically record app names, window titles, or URLs, we recommend adding descriptions to specify your activities.
Project Management: You can select existing projects and tasks or create new ones directly from the timer.
No Idle Time: The Web Timer tracks time consistently, even if you are away from your computer. This makes it ideal for tracking offline activities like meetings or calls without needing to manually add offline time later.
No Screenshots: The screenshots feature is only available via the DeskTime desktop app. The Web Timer does not capture screenshots.
Using the Web Timer with the Desktop App
You can use the Web Timer and the Desktop App simultaneously, but they interact in specific ways:
Data Priority: If both are running, the Desktop App (automatic tracking) is the primary data source for app and URL usage. The Web Timer will simply fill in any idle gaps where the desktop app detected no activity.
Independent Controls: The Web Timer operates independently. Starting, quitting, or logging out of the desktop app will not start or stop the Web Timer.
Project Syncing: If you select a project on one, it will automatically sync to the other. You cannot track two different projects at the same time.
Note: Like all manual tracking features, the Web Timer can be disabled for specific members, teams, or the entire account. Navigate to Settings → Account → Tracking → Manual time tracking to manage these permissions.