How to Use a Chess Clock: Time Controls and Rules

A chess clock is far more than a simple timer: it is a strategic element in its own right. Knowing how to use it correctly is essential for any club or tournament player. Here is the complete guide.

Table of contents

How does a chess clock work?

A chess clock is made up of two independent timers, one for each player. When it is your turn to play, your clock counts down. After making your move, you press the button on your side: your clock stops and your opponent’s starts. If your time reaches zero (the “flag falls”), you lose the game, regardless of the position on the board.

Setting the time controls

Time control	Setting	Use
Blitz	3 min or 5 min	Fast games, club, online
Rapid	15 min or 25 min	Rapid tournaments
Classical	90 min + 30s/move	Official FIDE tournaments
Family	10 min + 5s/move	Games at home, ideal balance

The increment: a time bonus (in seconds) added after each move played. “3+2” means 3 minutes at the start + 2 seconds added after each move. The increment avoids absurd endgames where a player with a winning position loses on time.

The essential rules

✍ Which hand?

In an official tournament, you must move the piece AND press the clock with the same hand. It is forbidden to press the clock before releasing the piece on the board.

⚠ Flag fallen

If your time reaches zero, your opponent must point this out to claim victory. If no one notices and play continues, the game is not automatically lost. In blitz, a fallen flag is often decisive.

🔄 Pause

Only the arbiter may stop both clocks simultaneously (for a claim, an emergency, etc.). A player may never stop their opponent’s clock.

⏳ Placement

The clock is placed on the side of the player with the Black pieces (convention). It should be within easy reach of both players. The arbiter may decide otherwise depending on the room layout.

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Expert tip: Even at home, using a clock transforms the experience. Set 10+5 (10 minutes + 5 seconds increment) for well-paced, enjoyable games. This setting requires a clock with a bonus feature, such as the DGT 1002 Bonus or the DGT 1500. You will learn to manage your time, a crucial skill in tournament play. To choose your clock, see our clock buying guide.