A stopwatch can come in handy in many situations but unless you have previous experience of using one, you may look at the dial with nothing but confusion. The first time you are faced with this type of device, the numbers can seem a little odd but once you know what you are doing, reading a stopwatch will become second nature.
One of the most common reasons to use a stopwatch is for working out. Runners in particular would be lost without this type of watch. If you’re looking to learn how to read a stopwatch, you are in the right place. In this guide, we will give you clear and simple instructions that will have you reading your stopwatch with ease in no time at all.
What’s more, if you’re in the market for a new stopwatch, our fantastic selection of some of the best and easiest to read products will point you in the right direction.
How To Read A Stopwatch
Stopwatches don’t just come in one form so it is important to know how to read both types. There are digital and non-digital stopwatches and which you prefer is largely down to personal choice.
- The digital stopwatch is the more modern of the two types and relies on a digital display that shows the readout times in a very precise manner. Typically, this is read in 100th’s of a second.
- A traditional stopwatch has an analog face and features a large hand. This hand moves around the clock in a clockwise direction. It also features a small hand that is used to denote how many minutes have elapsed.
While many people do have a preference for one type of stopwatch over the other, it can be helpful to understand how to read both. After all, you never know when you might need to do it.
Reading A Digital Stopwatch
When reading a digital stopwatch, you will need to first pay attention to the minutes. These are represented by the first two digits of the stopwatch. Next, you will notice that there are a set of larger numbers which tell you how many seconds have passed. These digits are separated from the minutes by a ‘:’ mark. Finally, there is a smaller pair of digits to the right of the seconds which move incredibly quickly. These tell you the hundredths of a second that have passed. This makes a digital stopwatch extremely accurate.
There are also some digital stopwatches that feature more than one button. The first button is used to stop and reset the timer whereas the second button is used to note lap times. Each time a lap is completed, you press the button and this will record the time of each one as well as the stopwatch continuing to record the overall time. Typically, the overall time will be displayed at the bottom while the lap time will be displayed at the top. In any case, both times can be read in the same way.
Reading your digital stopwatch is simple and requires you to simply total the sum of each set of numbers. As an example, if the stopwatch reads 03:35:21 then this would be a total time of three minutes, thirty-five seconds, and twenty-one hundredths of a second.
Reading A Traditional Stopwatch
When you are reading a traditional stopwatch (also called an analog stopwatch), you will need to rely on the large hand that moves around the clock. In much the same way that a normal watch features a second hand, this big hand performs the same functions, measuring the number of seconds that have passed.
You will also notice that there is a smaller hand that rotates in the same direction but further inside the dial. This is the minute hand and will tell you how many minutes have passed during the timing session.
Reading the stopwatch is simple; all you need to do is total the number of minutes denoted by the small hand as well as the number of seconds denoted by the large hand. For example, if the smaller hand points to 2 and the larger hard is at the 20 second marker, the time passed would be 2 minutes and 20 seconds.
Easy To Read Digital Stopwatches
Digital stopwatches give you an incredible amount of accuracy thanks to their precise time measuring. Displaying time down to 100th of a second, you can always be sure that these modern stopwatches give you an exact reading.
Feiyasi Digital Stopwatch Timer
This stunning stopwatch comes in a silver color making it look more like a high-end piece of jewelry than a functional device. If you want something a little more luxurious, then we would highly recommend this one. However, it doesn’t just come in one color and if you prefer something a little different, there are a total of six color choices.
- HIGH QUALITY METAL MATERIAL & MUTE FUNCTION - The digital stopwatch timer for sports is made of stainless steel which is durable...
- MULTI-FUNCTION - Countdown Timer, The maximum countdown long up to 23:59:59, Shutdown function, Timing function, Alarm function,...
- 1 LAPS MEMORIES - Our sports counter stopwatch is very convenient, The accuracy measurement time is 1/100 sec.Fastest(FS), slowest...
The large digital display is clear and sits on a green lit background making it beautifully easy to see, even for those with poorer vision. Not only does it display the time but there is also a days of the week indicator, for convenience.
What we really love about this stopwatch is how durable it is. This durability comes as a result of the stainless steel from which the stopwatch is made and this also offers excellent shock proofing. These features mean that the watch is ideal for outdoor sports and adventures. It is also waterproof and comes with a backlight for use in low light; this really is a stopwatch for all occasions.
ADANAC Glow
The ADANAC Glow by Marathon Watch is an affordable yet highly functional stopwatch that comes in a choice of three colors. It is incredibly stylish and a must-have accessory for any modern athlete. This stopwatch is also perfect for outdoor sports since it boasts many features that improve the durability and resilience of the piece.
- LCD Display - Jumbo display with back light feature for great viability
- SPLIT MODE - Times single and split events. Freeze split-time display while total timing continues
- TIME & CALENDAR - Time/Calendar displays hour, minute, seconds, month, date and day and alarm clock
For example, the ADANAC Glow is fully water resistant so can be used in rain and wet conditions. Moreover, it is made from plastic which is shatterproof and will effectively resist shock. We also love the fact that this stopwatch comes with a lanyard so it can be worn around the neck.
In terms of being easy to read, there aren’t many other products that are quite this clear. The display features large digits that are crystal clear. It also benefits from a backlight so no matter what the conditions, you can always see the display. With a handy lap timer, you can get details of every lap as well as the overall time clearly shown on the large LCD screen.
ACCUSPLIT Pro Survivor A601X
This is another stopwatch that comes in an array of colors from black to pink and yellow to blue; there is something for every taste. Because who said that functionality had to be boring? But much more than just looking the part, the Pro Survivor is an incredibly accurate and effective stopwatch that is ideal for a range of sports.
- The Best Value PE Stopwatch on the Market
- ACCUSPLIT Exclusive Ergonomic "X" Case
- Special Million Cycle Switches operate cleanly, precisely & reliably every time
This stopwatch benefits from an ergonomic case making it comfortable to hold and easy to use. What’s more, it boasts a large screen with clear and easy to read digits that can be seen even by those whose vision is not quite as good. Moreover, the million cycle switches promise superior accuracy.
The Pro Survivor is great in many ways but the durable plastic case makes it perfect for outdoor use and the lightweight design means that it won’t get in the way. What’s more, the watch is fitted with a long-life lithium ion battery that will last as long as five years!
ADANAC 7000
Going back to ADANAC made by Marathon Watch; if you’re in the market for a durable and highly resistant stopwatch for serious outdoor adventures then this is definitely a product worth considering. It comes with a shockproof design that will always stand up to the challenge, is dustproof and can be used in water too.
- LARGE LCD DISPLAY - Great for displaying the minutes, seconds and 1/100th seconds
- SPLIT MODE - Times single and split events. Freeze split-time display while total timing continues
- TIME & CALENDAR - Time/Calendar displays hour, minute, seconds, month, date and day and alarm clock
It benefits from a beautifully easy to use design and the case features a soft grip making it comfortable to hold. Thanks to being laser tuned, you can always rely on this stopwatch to provide you with the utmost accuracy.
Moreover, we love the fact that the display is large and clear making it incredibly easy to read, even if you’ve never used a stopwatch before. This one also features a time and date function as well as the ability to set an alarm, so if its features you’re after, this one will almost certainly meet your needs.
ADANAC 8000 Professional Stopwatch Timer
Our final digital watch is another Marathon ADANAC. We feel that this brand has a lot to offer and yet won’t break the bank. This professional stopwatch features a medium-sized LCD display with a back light meaning that it can be used in a variety of conditions. What’s more, there is also a calendar and time function so you won’t need to worry about taking any other watch with you when you’re working out.
- LARGE LCD DISPLAY - Great for displaying the minutes, seconds and 1/100th seconds
- SPLIT MODE - Times single and split events. Freeze split-time display while total timing continues
- TIME & CALENDAR - Time/Calendar displays hour, minute, seconds, month, date and day and alarm clock
The stopwatch is easy to use and features simple buttons and a comfortable grip. We also think that it is great that the ADANAC pro stopwatch is designed for outdoor use and is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof. If it’s durability you’re looking for, this is a great option.
Easy To Read Traditional Stopwatches
While the digital stopwatch may have the upper hand when it comes to accuracy and precision, there is something about a traditional stopwatch that just feels better. If you want to get a feeling of nostalgia and class then a traditional stopwatch might be the right option for you.
Diamond Equestrian Stopwatch
This stopwatch, made from high quality materials is perfect for timing various types of horse and features a clear and easy to read, traditional face.
- Traditional style stopwatch
- Use for training thoroughbred, standardbred or quarter horse racin
- Does not have split second hand
TTSUAI Digital Sports Stopwatch Timer
Made from stainless steel, this stopwatch offers durability as well as easy function. Featuring a one button stop/start and precise gemstone movement, it is incredibly reliable.
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Full Featured Digital Stopwatches
Are you looking for the best of the best? If so, then a full featured digital stopwatch is likely the best choice for you. Bursting with features and providing you with excellent accuracy, these full featured digital stopwatches are a surefire worthy investment.
Rolilink Stopwatch
The Rolilink stopwatch is perhaps one of the most accurate on the market today, with accuracy within 0.01 seconds. Furthermore, it comes with the ability to retain up to 10 laps per cycle and has a clear and easy to read display. While it may be a little more complex than some of the other stopwatches we have seen, there is no doubt that even a beginner would quickly get to grips with it.
- 10 Lap memory and 0.01 second accuracy. Please pattention that there's a plastic protector on the screen. There may be scratches...
- Time and date display; 12h and 24h settings are optional
- Countdown timer up to 9:59:59; Pacer; Alarm clock function:Turn on or turn off an alarm.
This beautiful looking stopwatch is made from high quality stainless steel metal that gives it a durable finish. What’s more, it is waterproof and therefore, ideal for outdoor use and sports.
As well as merely functioning as a stopwatch, the Rolilink also comes with some other handy features including an alarm, time, and date display. It’ll also turn off automatically when not in use for a predetermined period of time meaning it is also incredibly energy efficient and won’t lose power quickly.
PULIVIA Stopwatch
Whie the Pulivia stopwatch might not look as high end as the Rolilink, it certainly lives up in terms of durability and performance. This watch is made from plastic making it resistant to shock, cracks, and other types of damage. Moreover, it is fully waterproof and comes with a handy lanyard for easy wearing and access.
- LAP AND SPLIT MEASUREMENT FUNCTION --- Allow to record in both the lap and split time with the ability to store 30 memories for...
- MEMORY RECALLED FUNCTION --- Up to 30 measurements can be stored in memory, and they can be recalled with the fastest lap, slowest...
- THREE ROWS DIGITAL DISPLAY LARGE SCREEN --- Lap time, split time and the total continue-moving time are displayed in the same...
The stopwatch features simple to use buttons and a clear digital display set on a large screen. It has all the functions you would expect from a stopwatch and then some! With time and date display, you’ll never be out of the loop and the alarm and auto off functions are a nice addition. What we really like, however, is the fact that this stopwatch gives you the ability to store up to 30 memories so you’ll never forget that personal best!
How to use a stop watch. Calculate Minutes per Mile.
Here is an example:
If you want a run a 10k race in 50 minutes, then you need to know how fast you need to run each kilometer to finish the race in 50 minutes.
50 min is 3000 seconds. (50 min x 60sec/min)
So you need to run each km in 300 seconds. (3000s / 10 km)
300 seconds is 5 minutes.
So, to run a 10 km race in 50 minutes, you need to maintain a 1 km per 5 min pace.
Official Marathon Timekeepers Video
Official Marathon Video Timekeeper of Round The Island Race ’22
Conclusion
A stopwatch will come in handy for a number of things and having one that is easy to read is one of the most important things you should be looking for when choosing a product. If you’ve never read a stopwatch before, it can feel a little intimidating, but the good news is that these watches aren’t as confusing as they first appear.
Once you understand how to read a stopwatch, it is time to choose one of the many on offer. While there are a lot of excellent products out there, the ones we have featured in this guide are among the elite.
