♞

Zeno 10 Minute Chess Timer

Tournament Timer

Preset: 10+0 — the most popular online rapid game

minutes / side
seconds / move

Tap a clock face to pass the move. First to run out of time loses.

The 10 Minute Chess Game

Ten minutes per side with no increment (10+0) is one of the most played time controls in the world and the default game on many online chess sites. It is fast enough to finish a game in about 20 minutes, yet slow enough to think through the opening, make plans and calculate the important moments.

This 10 minute chess timer brings the same format to a real board. It opens pre-set to 10+0, so you only need to press Begin Game. Put the phone or tablet next to the board, tap your own side after every move, and the first player to run out of time loses.

Playing Well in 10+0

  • Spend about one minute on the opening and save the rest for the middlegame.
  • Try to reach move 30 with at least three minutes left.
  • Without increment, simplify when you are ahead on time and keep the position complicated when you are behind.
  • Want a safety net? Add a 5 second increment for a 10+5 game.

Is 10 Minutes Blitz or Rapid?

By the letter of the FIDE rules, a game of exactly 10 minutes per player with no increment is blitz, because blitz covers ten minutes or less. Most online platforms, however, list 10+0 in their rapid category. Either way, it is the sweet spot for players who want quick games that still reward real chess thinking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a 10 minute chess game last?

At most 20 minutes of clock time, and usually 15 to 20 minutes in practice.

Is 10+0 good for beginners?

Yes. It gives beginners enough time to check for blunders while keeping games short and fun.

Should I play 10+0 or 15+10?

10+0 is quicker and teaches time management. 15+10 gives more time and a steady increment, so it is better for careful practice.

Can I change the time?

Yes. Edit the minutes or increment before pressing Begin Game; your settings are saved for next time.

Other Chess Clock Formats

Every format has its own pre-set clock: Bullet 1+0, Blitz 3+2, Blitz 5+0, 10 Minute Rapid, Rapid 15+10, 30 Minute Rapid and the Tournament Clock 90+30. Or set any time control you like on the main online chess clock.