CNET Editors' review
The Cool Timer is free alarm clock software that allows you to set up a countdown timer on your desktop down to the minute and second you want. It is an easy and cool way to keep track of your tasks and scheduling.
The interface is very easy to understand and definitely user friendly. There are only a few feature buttons like Start Timer, Pause Timer and Stop Timer, which are all you really need to get started. There doesn't seem to be any limit on how many hours you can set the timer for. Our testing didn't show any glitches or issues with this software. This is a cute if not cool way to countdown, thanks to the Preferences options. The timer can be set to reveal an image as it counts and Cool Timer provides some cute pictures. The alarm sound options are diverse as well, and fun to test out. The software also has an alarm clock and stop watch mode, which aren't obvious from a cursory sweep of the features.
The installation process was simple and didn't cause any issues. Uninstalling is just as simple. There are no limitations when downloading this free software since there is no registered version that will cost you money and restrict the features. This software is very easy to use and to set up even for a novice user. We would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a cute way to keep track of time on their computer.
Publisher's Description
From Harmony Hollow Software:
Handy timer utility with many cool features. Can be used like an oven timer in countdown mode, an alarm clock, or a stopwatch. Unique visualization feature shows time passage graphically using any of several high-quality, built-in images or any image on your computer. Great for parents and teachers.
What's new in this version: Version 4.5 may include unspecified updates, enhancements, or bug fixes.
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All versions:
3.5 starsout of 248 votes
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Current version:
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My rating:
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"good timer app, loaded with crapware"
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.3
Pros
excellent timer, you can use it to see how friggin long it will take you to hunt down and uninstall all the crap it installs even after you clicked the 'no thanks' boxes.
Cons
trojan horse loaded with nasty greek soldiers.
Summary
infuriating subterfuge and sabotage, alarming access to 'all data on all sites' from 'lucky savings' self invading malware.
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"There is a way to keep from installing the extra crap."
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.3
Pros
I have always like cool timer I use it will exercising in my room.
Cons
I don't like that you have to make shore both are unchecked the toolbar in both setups the one from downloads.com as well as the cool timer installation program.
Summary
After downloading install it.Once you open it to install it.CNET Download.com porgram will open. It says Cool Timer and below that it says SweetPacks>Express (recommended) Install SweetPacks in all browsers, set Bing as my default search engine in all browsers.
But if you click Custom Installation uncheck Install SweetPacks toolbar in all browsers, set Bing as my default search engine in all browsers.
After unchecking just click next and then I do not accept.Then next again and then it will say."Thank you. Your download is complete." Then just click install now.
Once you are in the Cool Timer installation just click skip which is the GRAY BUTTON. It will skip the installation of the program Instant access to coupons-save money with luckysaving widget!. By clicking Skip you do not need to install that program.
Once you click skip then just switch from Typical Installation (recommended) to Custom Installation And then uncheck the box.Then click Next then a new window will pop up sayign you are going to install it if you click next. Just click cancle and then the cool timer program will open a installation window.Then click next and then I accept the agreement.Then next again,and again.Once finished it will only install the cool timer program without all the extra crap. -
"Not Cool at all."
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.3
Pros
didn't get that far
Cons
won't start without internet connection
Summary
Why does a timer program require internet access? Don't know or care what it was up to, when it wouldn't run after I blocked it in the firewall it was in the trash. On a side note, nice how CNET wanted me to download a 700k installer to download a 180k program...
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"NOW COMES WITH MALWARE!"
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.3
Pros
None, anymore.
Cons
Installs Bing, even if you diligently uncheck while installing Cool Timer.
Instals SweetDeals, or sum such crap.Summary
Garbage, still with old version if you can find it and avoid CNet, I guess.
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"WARNING TROJAN"
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.1
Pros
Dont know, I will not run the program
Cons
Kaspersky detected a trojan from this file while installing. Tries to install extra programs and toolbars.
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"Good Program, Installs Malware"
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.1
Pros
Versatile timer program
Cons
Installs Mixi.dj crapware which adds a toolbar to your browser and changes your default search engine to BING. There is also some suggestion that this is spyware. The install process offers no opt-out for this. The removal is time consuming.
Summary
Good timer program with bad baggage.
I should mention that I downloaded the version of Cool Timer with the malware from CNET.
Updated on Apr 7, 2013 -
"Its free. Just great"
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.1
Pros
I use it as my cooker timer. Stick something in the oven, go on the internet, forget about the stuff I have in the oven, it ends up burnt. Not any longer. Never burnt a pie since.
Cons
None. It just works.
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"The Name is exactly Right, Cool Timer"
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.1
Pros
- Very simple, easy to use
- Timer, Stop Watch, & Alarm Clock
- Ability to Label each timer on what it is timing
- Very small screen footprint
- FreeCons
None I can think of.
Summary
Great little program, very clean, just the right features, quick and easy to use, free with no ads or nags.
Bottom line: Cool Timer :) -
"Great and Free."
Version: Cool Timer 4.9.1
Pros
If you want to track time, it'll do it.
Cons
None that I've encountered.
Summary
If you want to track time, like how long does it take you to finish a task, it's great for doing that.
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"Installs crapware along with timer"
Version: Cool Timer 4.8.7
Pros
Functional timer.
Cons
Installation includes stealth installation of crapware. Suddenly, you not only have Cool Timer, but you also have Coupon Companion which hijacks your browser.
Summary
Don't install this program unless you also want crapware installed with it. Shame on CNet for not alerting us.
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