There are a lot of kitchen timers on the market, but which is the best kitchen timer america’s test kitchen?
If you’re like most people, you rely on your kitchen timer to help you time everything from boiling eggs to baking a cake. But with so many different timers available on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs.

That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in – they’ve tested dozens of kitchen timers and found the best one for every kind of cook. So whether you’re looking for a basic timer or one with extra features, read on to find out which timer is right for you.
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Why do you should to buy the best kitchen timer for your kitchen?
Kitchen timers are useful tools in your kitchen; they can keep you on track and help you make sure that the task at hand is completed in a timely fashion. If you need to time something like boiling eggs or microwaving food, for example, it’s much easier to do so if you have a timer on hand!
Kitchen timers may also come in handy for when cooking with recipes that require precise timing – especially when baking or roasting things. You can even use them to time when your toast pops up out of the toaster, helping ensure that it doesn’t burn! Of course there are other uses for kitchen timers too – such as when timing yourself running laps around the block, putting dry ingredients into batter bowl in an accurate way, and much more!
Kitchen timers are a helpful tool in the kitchen – they’re included in most standard appliances, but if yours doesn’t have one built in there’s always the option of getting a separate timer for your kitchen.
You can find them at many different stores or websites, so finding your favorite timer shouldn’t be too difficult! Just remember to keep things like price, design, and usability in mind when shopping around – it’ll help ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Reviews of The Best Kitchen Timer America’s Test Kitchen in 2022
Here are top rated Kitchen Timer Amazon to buy
Top 1 – Wrenwane Big Digits Loud Alarm Digital Kitchen Timer
Affordable, easily programmable, versatile and sophisticated tech, this best kitchen timer america’s test kitchen takes the lead. This top choice comes from Wrenwane, a reputable brand in this space known for offering top-quality devices.
This gadget does not have the beep feature to minimize unnecessary sound for a whisper-quiet operation. However, it sports large digits for easy reading even from afar.
The Wrenwane Big Digits Loud Alarm, Digital Kitchen Timer eliminates the struggle of knowing or worrying about how much time is left to prevent over-or undercooking your food. This kitchen tool can sit just about anywhere, thanks to its kick-out stand, hanging hook and magnetic back, offering incredible versatility.
Also, it comes with a memory function that stores your favourite settings and reverts to the last mode to ensure you don’t have to regularly set your preferred preset mode. The best part: the timer makes a loud sound to notify you when the count down or up is complete, and your meal is ready.
Pros:
- Big display with clear digits
- Loud sounding alarm
- Memory function for quick use
- Affordable price point
- It comes with a retractable stand, magnetic back and a hanging hook
Cons:
- It does not work with rechargeable batteries
Top 2 – KTKUDY Digital Kitchen Timer
Our runner up, the KTKUDY Digital Kitchen Timer, comes with many bells and whistles. This portable device has an audible ring mode, an array of sound settings, and a whisper-quiet flashing model (perfect for class, meeting, or other sound-sensitive environments).
The ring mode produces a 70 – 90dB beeping sound that guarantees to catch your attention, even if you’re in the next room. This way, you don’t have to worry about overcooking or burning your food.
Packed with possibilities, this best kitchen timer America’s Test Kitchen comes with three modes – an alarm clock mode, a clock mode and a count up and down. Plus, it features a memory function that takes away the need to set up your digital timer for every use.
This kitchen tool is intuitive and straightforward to operate and use. Plus, it has an on-and-off switch for extended battery life. Another handy feature is the fast forward function that allows you to set the timer without hitting the button several times.
Like any timer, this unit is supplied with a magnetic back to allow users to hang or use the retractable stand hook for easy placement. Above all, it is backed by a 1-year warranty to offer buyers peace of mind with their purchase.
Pros:
- User-friendly design
- 1-year hassle-free replacement or money-back guarantee
- Multifunction timer
- Equipped with three Strong Magnet for strong hold
Cons:
- It does not come with AAA batteries
Top 3 – Senbowe Large Display Screen Kitchen Timer
Look no further than the Senbowe Large Display Kitchen Timer if you are on a budget. Despite its low price point, this portable device is packed with many digital features for an effortless, efficient operation.
This model has a loud alarm that is sure to notify you wherever you’re when your food is done. In addition, it’s simple to set – just hold the seconds or minutes buttons to input your preferred cooking time, then press the start button.
What’s more? The Senbowe Large Display Kitchen Timer is equipped with a countdown and count up function. Plus, the large display makes it easy to read from any angle.
Notwithstanding, this kitchen timer is supplied with a kick-out stand to place this device on your counter or hang on your fridge with the magnetic back.
Pros:
- Versatile placement with kick-out stand and magnetic back
- Large digit LCD with bold digits
- Offers both countdown and count-up function
- User-friendly design
Cons:
- The alarm volume cannot be adjusted
- Battery covers tend to fall off easily
Top 4 – KeeQii Timer Manual Timer Kitchen Timer
The KeeQii Timer Kitchen Timer is the best analog kitchen timer out there. This diminutive model offers a time range from 1 – 60 minutes and does run on batteries. It’s a decent choice for anyone looking to purchase an old-school, straightforward kitchen timer.
To get started, simply twist the knob to your preferred time. This 60-min cooking timer is easy to use for both kids and seniors. Since this model is mechanical and does not hinge on electrical power or batteries, it’s more eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
Once the time is completed, the KeeQii Timer Kitchen Timer alarms you with an 80dB sound that’s audible enough to get your attention even from another room. Also, it has a strong magnet on the back to allow you to hang it on your fridge for quick and easy access.
Most importantly, you want to turn the timer clockwise back to zero before setting your preferred cooking time.
Pros:
- Sturdy stainless steel construction
- 60-minute timing
- Loud 80dB alarm
- Easy twist operation
- kid and elderly friendly
Cons:
- Expect a slight learning curve
Top 5 – eTradewinds Digital Auto Memory Stainless Steel Kitchen Timer
Equipped with many high-tech functions like fast forward, automatic shut-off and memory, the eTradewinds Digital Auto Memory Stainless Steel Kitchen Timer is arguably the best digital kitchen timer america’s test kitchen on the market. More so, it’s made of stainless steel for durability and a timeless appearance.
This tool is handy for timing your entire cooking process. Its memory function reverts your last settings to prevent the hassle of constantly setting the device whenever you want to use it. Also, eTradewinds Digital Auto Memory Stainless Steel Kitchen Timer has an automatic shut-off feature to help save battery life.
On top of that, you get a fast-forward function to allow you to set the timer quickly instead of pushing the buttons several times. Talking about buttons, they are soft and comfortable to touch and press. Plus, the large screen displays digits boldly for easy viewing from any angle.
Pros:
- Unconditional lifetime guarantee
- Large display for easy viewing
- Made in the USA
- One finger operation
Cons:
- The alarm sound isn’t as loud as other models
- There’s a beeping sound every time you press the button
What is a Kitchen Timer?
A kitchen timer is a device that is used to measure the passage of time. It usually does this by ringing an alarm at the end of a set period, and it’s usually made to be as simple as possible – there are no extra bells and whistles or complicated electronics involved. Kitchen timers come in many shapes and sizes, from digital timers to ‘hourglass’ timers and beyond.
What is a Digital Kitchen Timer?
A digital kitchen timer is the most common type of kitchen timer today – it’s just a simple clock that can have an alarm sound, and it’s programmed to go off after a certain time period has elapsed. In other words, it’s just like setting your regular alarm clock!
The only difference being you set the time before going off, instead of waking up to a loud beeping in the middle of the night. You can find these types of timers in many different shapes and sizes, including stand-alone models or ones built into your stove.
These are very popular because they’re so easy to use; all you do is push the button to set the time you want it to go off, push another button to start it, then stop it when it goes off. When the alarm is activated, a loud beeping will sound until you hit the ‘stop’ button – some units even have an alarm siren if you prefer that instead.
What are Mechanical Kitchen Timers?
Mechanical kitchen timers are also very common. They work by using a small internal mechanism consisting of wires connecting two plates at one end with weights on either side of the wire near the bottom. These types of timers are often shaped like hourglasses or other rounded objects, being either cylindrical or spherical in shape.
Basically what happens is that after your timer runs down all the way, the wire ‘snaps’ and releases tension created by the weights, causing the bottom plate to ring an alarm (or siren). Mechanical kitchen timers can vary in size; some are no larger than a coin while others are as big as a small clock.
These types of timers work more slowly than digital timers, but since they’re mechanical you don’t have to worry about them running out of batteries or having the power go off – which is very helpful if you live somewhere that experiences frequent power cuts!
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Kitchen Timer
Design
In general kitchen timers come in two shapes: round and rectangle. Though there are some other unique shapes out there, most of them look pretty similar to these two styles. Round timers usually have a large dial in the middle for turning and rectangular timers may have a curved front edge or a center circle for turning – this varies depending on the manufacturer and the type itself.
Keep in mind that you should choose something that’s appropriate for your needs! If you’re going to be using it frequently then get one with rounded edges so it’ll be easier to grip and won’t hurt your hands as much.
Price
The price of the best kitchen timer america’s test kitchen varies widely depending on the materials used to make them, though prices are generally similar between different types. As stated above, most electronic kitchen timers are used with appliances so they’re part of the machine’s purchase price. Stand-alone mechanical timers can range anywhere from $1 to $50 depending on brand, size, and style.
While there are some options for free digital kitchen timer apps for your smartphone or tablet computer, these usually have limited functions compared with stand-alone models (which often include alarms). With that said, if you already own a high quality timer – whether it’s digital or not – don’t feel like you need to buy another one! Save your money for something else…or use it to buy more food to cook with.
Time Accuracy
In general, all types of kitchen timers are fairly accurate when measuring time – unless they’re broken or defective. In most cases you can expect a digital kitchen timer to measure within 5-10 milliseconds of the actual amount of time passed, while stand-alone mechanical timers may be off by several minutes out of an hour.
As long as the difference doesn’t bother you then there’s no reason to worry about it! If accuracy is vital to your cooking or baking skills then consider buying a higher quality commercial kitchen timer that will give you a more precise measurement.
However, if being off by a second or so here and there won’t have any negative effects on your dish…don’t bother spending the extra money!
The Time Duration
In general, all types of kitchen timers can have a maximum time duration between 30 seconds and 1 hour. However, some types have additional features that increase their maximum time duration – such as multiple alarms or a built-in clock.
Since these are usually digital, they’re often easier to use for counting down how many minutes remain until your food is cooked or what have you. Keep in mind that some types of kitchen timer don’t have this function at all – unless there is a way to set a secondary alarm on them. If you need a longer countdown then make sure it’s included before purchasing!
Alarm Sound
The sound emitted by kitchen timers varies depending on the type of timer being used. Most digital kitchen timers have a loud, high pitched beep that can go off repeatedly to catch your attention. Some types of mechanical kitchen timers make a quick “bip” sound once the alarm has been activated.
These may vary in volume – from soft and subtle to extremely loud. Also keep in mind that some types don’t emit any sound at all – such as traditional egg timers that rely on gravity to tell them when time has passed. In general you should choose an alarm type that’s appropriate for your cooking or baking needs – especially if you’ve got children running around the house!
Number of Displays
All types of kitchen timers frequently come with just one display screen, though stand-alone models may have more than one panel onr them.
Since most kitchen timers are digital, they may have as few as one display or as many as four. In general you should choose a timer that has an appropriate number of screens for your cooking and baking needs – keep in mind that some types won’t have any displays!
Be sure to check if there is any secondary alarm function on the timer before buying it – this way you’ll know how many times it can alert you at once.
Batteries
Kitchen timers are generally powered by batteries which are included when you purchase them. However, some types of kitchen timer need to be manually wound up while others operate off of spring power (this often varies between ancient egg timers).
If manual winding isn’t your thing then consider getting a digital timer with a battery backup system. Be sure to check if these types of timers have any features that depend on the type of batteries being used – such as an auto-off function or a display light.
Tips for buying the best kitchen timer america’s test kitchen:
• Use the timer before purchasing it – this way you’ll know how many times it can alert you at once.
• Check if the digital models have any features that depend on the type of batteries being used (such as an auto-off function or a display light).
• If you’re going to be using it frequently then get one with rounded edges so it’ll be easier to grip and won’t hurt your hands as much.
• Consider getting a digital timer with a battery backup system if manual winding isn’t your thing. Be sure to check whether the alarm sound is a factor of the timer itself or if it’s dependent on the type of batteries being used.
• If you’re going to be using it frequently, then get one with an auto-shut off function that can prevent wastage of battery life over time.
• Consider getting a digital model that has more than one alarm sound – it’ll add some variety to your kitchen while cooking!
• Make sure there are no loud beeping sounds while you’re trying to sleep in another room!
• Don’t forget about any secondary features such as a clock display and/or a thermometer function (if applicable).
• Check how long until food becomes edible or drinkable before purchasing one just so you know how long you have to wait before your food is ready.
• Consider getting a model that has a built-in magnet for easy storage on the fridge or stove!
• Consider buying one that’s waterproof if you’re going to be using it outside often (like camping).
• If you use it outside often then consider getting one with an anti-slip base so it’ll stay in place more easily during the countdown.
Three Types of Kitchen Timers:
• Digital:
Electronic timer that will alert you with a loud beep sound when the time has passed.
Average price range: about $3-$15 USD. Average time duration range: 30 seconds-1 hour.
Main feature: Displays countdown in seconds or minutes remaining for up to 60 time periods.
Alarm sound may vary depending on manufacturer – some share a single sound while others have multiple sounds for you to choose from. Some models even have an auto-shut off function!
• Mechanical (traditional egg timer):
Analog hand-powered timer that I activated by rotating the ring around outside of the glass tube clockwise.
Average price range: about $3-$7 USD. Average time duration range: 2-5 minutes.
Main feature: Countdown is activated by human power – will need to be reset every time you use it so you need to know how much time elapsed and approximately how long until your food or drink is ready! You can’t set a secondary alarm on these timers so the only way to do so would be for someone else to yell at you when the food is done.
Alarm sound may vary depending on brand – some are loud while others are soft/subtle. Design usually depends on manufacturer but they tend to have round edges and look like glass tubes with cylindrical tops (usually made of metal). The color(s) may also vary.
• Spring-driven:
Analog hand-powered timer that’s based on the principle of a weight hanging from a cord which is wound around a spindle and released when time has passed.
Average price range: about $4-$9 USD. Average time duration range: 2-5 minutes.
Main feature: Countdown is activated by winding up its spring until it reaches the desired number of turns and slowly unwinds at the same rate as the mechanism inside slowly lowers to indicate elapsed time with a pointer below it (as opposed to an LED or LCD display) – can’t set more than one alarm on these timers so you’ll only get notified once!
Alarm sound may vary depending on brand but they tend to be loud and sharp. Design usually depends on manufacturer – some have round edges while others are more flat/square in shape.
FAQs on best kitchen timer america’s test kitchen
1. Can digital timers be used in a microwave?
Yes they can, but it’s usually recommended to stay away from microwaves altogether when using one due to the increased risk of being burnt.
2. Will a Kitchen Timer tell me how long until my food is ready or if it’s done cooking?
-No, only a separate oven timer will do that. A kitchen timer can only alert you whenever your food is cooked and/or edible – not when it gets done cooking.
3. How accurate are these timers compared to an oven time?
-Kitchen timers may vary in accuracy depending on the manufacturer and over time with repeated use so you’ll have to refer back to the manual to find out.
4. Can I just use my phone as a timer instead of getting one of these?
-Yes you can, but it’s recommended to purchase one if you want an easy and accurate way to measure the time that passes on your food or drink.
Conclusion
If you are in the market for a quality kitchen timer, we highly recommend checking out the offerings from America’s Test Kitchen. We have had great experiences with their products and have found them to be some of the best kitchen timer america’s test kitchen on the market.
Not only do they have a wide variety of timers to choose from, but they also offer incredible customer service. So if you are looking for a top-notch kitchen timer, be sure to check out America’s Test Kitchen. You won’t regret it!
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