How to set an alarm or timer on a Mac?
Aug 01, 2025 am 07:25 AM
On macOS Ventura and later, open the Clock app, click the Alarm tab, add a new alarm with time, label, repeat, sound, and snooze options, and toggle it on—alarms work even if the Mac is asleep as long as it’s powered. 2. Use Siri by clicking the icon or saying “Hey Siri,” then voice commands like “Set an alarm for 7 AM” or “Start a 15-minute timer,” with alarms persisting after restart only on Ventura and later. 3. For advanced features, install third-party apps like Alarm Clock Pro for multiple alarms and playlists, Time Out for break reminders, or Focus To-Do for Pomodoro timers with task management. 4. Tech-savvy users can use Terminal with a command like “sleep 600; say ‘Timer finished’” for a 10-minute countdown, or create custom timers in the Shortcuts app using “Wait” followed by “Play Sound” or “Speak Text.” The Clock app is the best option on macOS Ventura and later, while Siri or third-party apps are recommended for older versions, and alarms typically function even when the Mac is closed if power settings allow wake-up.
Setting an alarm or timer on a Mac isn’t as straightforward as on an iPhone, since macOS doesn’t have a built-in Clock app with alarm functionality like iOS. However, there are several effective ways to set alarms or timers on your Mac—here’s how.
1. Use the "Clock" App (on macOS Ventura and later)
Starting with macOS Ventura (13.0), Apple introduced a Clock app on the Mac, finally bringing alarm and timer features natively.
To set an alarm:
- Open the Clock app (you can find it in your Applications folder or use Spotlight: press
Cmd Spaceand type "Clock"). - Click the Alarm tab at the top.
- Click the button to add a new alarm.
- Set the time, label, repeat days, sound, and snooze options.
- Toggle it on—your alarm will trigger even if your Mac is asleep (as long as it’s powered on).
To set a timer:
- In the same Clock app, go to the Timer tab.
- Enter the duration (e.g., 10 minutes).
- Click Start.
- When the timer ends, a loud alert will play.
? Tip: You can add the Clock widget to your desktop or Notification Center for quick access.
2. Use Siri (Works on All Macs with macOS Sierra or Later)
If you’re on an older macOS version or just want a quick way, Siri can set timers and alarms easily.
- Click the Siri icon in the menu bar or say “Hey Siri” (if enabled).
- Say something like:
- “Set an alarm for 7 AM tomorrow.”
- “Start a 15-minute timer.”
Siri will confirm and set it. Alarms set via Siri will appear in the Clock app (if available) or run in the background.
?? Note: Alarms set via Siri on older macOS versions may not persist after restart unless you’re on Ventura or later.
3. Use Third-Party Apps (For More Features)
If you need more control—like custom sounds, multiple timers, or better integration—try these popular apps:
- Alarm Clock Pro – Full-featured alarm app with multiple alarms, music options, and wake-up playlists.
- Time Out – Great for taking breaks; sets recurring break timers.
- Focus To-Do – Combines Pomodoro timers with task lists.
These are especially useful if you're on an older macOS version without the Clock app.
4. Use Terminal or Shortcuts for Custom Timers
For tech-savvy users, you can create a simple countdown timer using Terminal:
sleep 600; say "Timer finished"
This waits 10 minutes (600 seconds), then speaks the message. You can change the time and message as needed.
Alternatively, use the Shortcuts app:
- Open Shortcuts (available since macOS Monterey).
- Create a new shortcut: add actions like “Wait,” then “Play Sound” or “Speak Text.”
- Save and run it whenever you need a custom timer.
Final Notes
- On macOS Ventura and later, the Clock app is the easiest and most reliable option.
- On older macOS versions, Siri or third-party apps are your best bet.
- Alarms and timers generally work even if your Mac is closed (if power settings allow wake-up).
Basically, if you're up to date, you’ve got native alarms now—no more workarounds needed.
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