Commercial kitchen timers are an important type of kitchen equipment, tracking how long food has been cooking or how far you are into food prep. Using kitchen timers, you can ensure your signature recipes are prepared to your exact specifications. With countless styles and configurations available, kitchen timers offer maximum efficiency and functionality to meet the diverse needs of different types of restaurants. Whether you run a fast-paced diner, a fine dining establishment, or a bustling bakery, there is a kitchen timer that will help you stay on top of your kitchen tasks. To assist you in making informed purchases, we have compiled a list of the best kitchen timers based on usage and features.
Shop All Kitchen Timers
Check out our top choices for the best commercial kitchen timers:
- Best Kitchen Timer Overall: FMP 151 7500
- Best Digital Kitchen Timer: Taylor 5849
- Best Mechanical Kitchen Timer: Taylor 5830
- Best Basic Kitchen Timer: CDN TM8
- Best Budget Kitchen Timer: AvaTime 9142DT24H
The FMP 151 7500 features 4 countdown timers with convenient memory recall. Ideal for a range of food service establishments, from quick service restaurants to cafeterias, this commercial-grade timer can be wall-mounted for out-of-the-way placement. The large 3/4" LCD display makes it easy to read the settings, while color-coded lights and time cycle buttons aid in quick identification. The 10-hour countdown on this digital 4-in-1 timer is adjustable by hour, minute, and second, providing flexibility for various cooking processes. Additionally, it is designed with an antimicrobial plastic housing and a water-resistant keypad.
- 4 countdown timers with memory recall
- Adjustable by hour, minute, and second up to 10 hours
- Can be wall mounted
- High / low volume control
- Bulky design
- Low battery life
The Taylor 5849 comes with a unique 70 dB alarm that sounds at the end of a timing cycle. Featuring four separate digital timers on the left side, it allows you to manage each dish with precision. Each timer can count up or down for up to 24 hours, providing versatility and flexibility for your cooking needs. On the right side of the timer, you'll find a convenient whiteboard for notes, complete with an included dry-erase marker. It also features a memory function to recall your last set timing event. Its magnetic back makes it ideal for hanging on your refrigerator or stove, providing easy access and constant visibility.
Read customer reviews for the Taylor 5849.
Runner Up: Choice 9144CCHT
- Tracks four kitchen events on one face with different tones for each one
- White board lets you make notes for timers
- Each timer tracks up to 24 hours and 59 minutes
- Stand or hang with magnet
- Small magnet
- Durability concerns
The Taylor 5830 is a simple but reliable tool. It features large, easy-to-read numbers along the dial and a classic wind-up design. To ensure that your staff notices the time elapsed, the timer rings for 9 seconds, providing a clear and audible signal. It is built with commercial kitchen environments in mind, featuring durable stainless steel housing and a non-skid rubber base. For easy and comfortable operation, this timer also features a rubberized knob.
Read customer reviews for the Taylor 5830.
Runner Up: AvaTime 914MT60M
- Times up to 60 minutes
- Large, easy-to-read numbers along dial
- Easy to wind-up for operation; great for one-handed use
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel housing
- Only tracks one event
- Simple design isn't ideal for busy kitchens
The CDN TM8 serves as a 3-in-1 timer, clock, and stopwatch. It features a compact design with a durable clip on the back, oversized buttons, and a large, user-friendly display screen with easy-to-read numbers. With the capability to count 24 hours up or down by hours, minutes, or seconds, it is a practical addition to any commercial kitchen. It alerts you with a loud, long alarm, ensuring you never miss the perfect moment to take food out of the oven.
Read customer reviews for the CDN TM8.
Runner Up: San Jamar Escali TMDGXL
- Features a 3-in-1 timer, clock, and stopwatch
- Counts 24 hours up or down by hours, minutes, and seconds
- Boasts a loud, long alarm
- Includes a memory button to recall settings
- Alarm sound may warp
- Magnet prone to falling out
The AvaTime 9142DT24H features a two-event timer, clock, and alarm clock functions. Counting up and down from 23 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds, it ensures efficient multitasking in the kitchen. The timer features a large, 2 5/16" x 1" LCD screen that provides clear visibility and ease of use. A loud ring and switch on the back lets users switch between alarm mode or silent mode, and the timer's memory function is a convenient feature that allows users to easily recall and reuse the previous time settings.
- Counts up and down from 23 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds
- Features a switch on the back for selecting alarm mode or silent mode
- Includes magnet, clip, stand, and loop for ultimate convenience
- Large 2 5/16" x 1" LCD display for easy viewing
- Confusing controls
- Loud alarm
How to Choose Kitchen Timers
Different kitchen timers offer varying capabilities to help streamline your workflow and enhance efficiency. By evaluating these factors and identifying which kitchen timer best suits your specific operational needs, you can maximize efficiency and productivity in your commercial kitchen. Choose a timer that complements your workflow and helps you deliver high-quality dishes on time.
1. Display Type
The type of display on your kitchen timer significantly impacts its functionality and ease of use. Consider your preference for display type and how you interact with your kitchen timer. Whether you opt for the modern convenience of a digital display or the classic appeal of a mechanical timer, both options are reliable.
- Digital display: These timers often come with additional features such as multiple events, allowing you to keep track of different foods cooking. The digital display on these timers is clear and precise, making it simple to set and monitor your cooking times.
- Mechanical display: These timers are manually set to the desired time, offering a tactile and traditional feel to the timing process. The aesthetic appeal of mechanical timers can also add a touch of charm to your kitchen decor.
2. Style
Consider the style of timer that best fits your workflow and kitchen layout to ensure efficient and accurate timing during food preparation. Keep in mind that you can have multiple styles in your kitchen depending on your needs.
- Clip-on timers: Clip-on timers are designed to attach easily to appliances or surfaces, allowing them to stay in place during use. This style is ideal for busy kitchen environments.
- Countertop timers: Countertop timers can be placed on a flat surface within easy reach. These timers are perfect for monitoring cooking times at a kitchen station.
- Handheld timers: Handheld timers are compact and portable, allowing you to carry them throughout the day. This style is great for chefs and kitchen staff who are constantly on the move.
- Magnetic timers: Magnetic timers feature a magnetic backing that can be affixed to metal appliances, such as your refrigerator or oven. This style is perfect for displaying the timer in a visible location for quick reference.
- Wall mount timers: Wall mount timers provide a fixed timing option by attaching to your wall. This style is ideal for creating a designated timing area.
3. Features
When selecting a kitchen timer for your establishment, considering the features available can help you choose the best option for your needs. Evaluate which features are most important for your kitchen's operations to ensure efficient and accurate timing.
- Alarms: Timers equipped with alarms will alert you audibly once the set time is up, ensuring you are promptly notified.
- Adjustable volume: Choose a timer with adjustable volume settings to tailor the alarm sound to your preference. This feature allows you to set the alarm volume as loud or quiet as needed.
- Backlit alarms: Opt for timers with backlights for enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions. Backlit alarms make it easy to read the timer display even in dimly lit areas.
- Flashing lights: These flashing lights provide an extra visual cue when the time is up, ensuring you don't miss the notification.
- Memory recall: Timers with memory recall functionality store your previous time settings, making it convenient to repeat cooking processes without re-entering the time each time.
- Programmable capabilities: Consider programmable timers that allow you to pre-set specific cooking times for your frequently prepared dishes.
- Water-resistance: Water-resistant timers are a practical choice for kitchens that handle liquid ingredients. These timers withstand exposure to liquids without compromising their functionality.
Back to Top
Commercial kitchen timers play an essential role in any foodservice environment. The best kitchen timers combine versatility and simple operation, creating a convenient tool that always fits your needs. By following along with our selections for the best kitchen timers, you can set your kitchen up for success.
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