Tournament Timer
Preset: 3+2 — the World Blitz Championship format
Tap a clock face to pass the move. First to run out of time loses.
3+2 means three minutes for each player plus a two-second increment after every move. It is the time control of the FIDE World Blitz Championship and one of the most played settings online. The short base time keeps games fast and exciting, while the small increment makes sure a winning position can actually be converted instead of being lost on time in a pure scramble.
A 3+2 game usually lasts between six and ten minutes, so you can fit several games into a short session. This 3+2 chess clock opens with the time control already set; just press Begin Game and tap your own side after every move.
With two seconds added after each move, a player who moves quickly in the endgame can keep their clock steady or even gain time. Compared with 3+0 or 5+0, you will see fewer games decided purely by the flag and more games decided by who plays the endgame better. That is why many players consider 3+2 the fairest blitz format.
What does 3+2 mean in chess?
Each player starts with 3 minutes, and 2 seconds are added to their clock after every move they make.
Is 3+2 blitz or bullet?
3+2 is blitz. Bullet is under three minutes per player in total, while blitz covers games up to ten minutes.
Is 3+2 better than 5+0?
Both are blitz. 3+2 gives less thinking time early but protects you in the endgame; 5+0 gives more time early but games can be decided on time.
How long does a 3+2 game take?
Usually six to ten minutes, depending on how many moves are played.
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.
Black
White
Black wins on time.