Tabata timers without ads on Android in 2026
The two biggest interval timers on Google Play are free with ads, and neither has had an update since mid-2025. If an ad popping up between rounds breaks your session, here's what to look for in a replacement.
Where the popular timers stand
- Interval Timer (10M+ installs): free with ads; last updated June 2025.
- Tabata Timer (5M+ installs): free with ads; last updated March 2025.
Both are well rated and do the basics. The complaints are about ads during workouts and thin Wear OS support. Install counts and dates are from their Google Play listings in October 2026.
What a good interval timer needs
- Accurate time with the screen off. The timer should run as a foreground service and work from the system clock, so it doesn't drift or skip when your phone sleeps.
- Cues you can't miss: a countdown beep, a voice for the round, and vibration, ideally on your wrist.
- Fast setup: Tabata, EMOM and AMRAP should be one tap away, with custom rounds a few taps more.
- A real watch app, not just notifications mirrored from the phone.
- No ads mid-workout.
Roundbell
Roundbell is our take: no ads at all, presets for Tabata, EMOM, AMRAP, HIIT and boxing rounds, beep, voice and vibration cues, and a standalone Wear OS app with a Tile and an Ongoing Activity. Everything to do with the timer is free. A one-off £2.49 Pro adds unlimited saved workouts, Health Connect logging and a custom bell.
Interval Timer and Tabata Timer are the trademarks of their owners. Roundbell is independent and isn't affiliated with them.