How to Add a Countdown Timer in WordPress (Elementor and Free Options)
By Saurabh Pandey · · 1 min read
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A countdown timer shows exactly how long a sale, launch or event registration remains open. Used honestly, it helps visitors decide. This guide shows how to add one with Elementor Pro or a free plugin, and what to display when time runs out.
Option 1: Elementor Pro Countdown widget
- Edit the page with Elementor and drag in the Countdown widget.
- Choose the Type: Due Date (a fixed date and time) or Evergreen Timer (counts from each visitor's first visit).
- Set the date and time. It uses your site time zone from Settings > General, so check that it is correct.
- Choose which units to show (days, hours, minutes, seconds) and style the boxes to match your brand.
- Set Actions After Expire: hide the timer, show a message, or redirect.
Option 2: A free plugin or block
Free countdown plugins and blocks work with the block editor and any theme. Search Plugins > Add New Plugin for "countdown timer", choose a well-rated, recently updated one, and insert its block or shortcode where you need it.
Where to place the timer
- Near the offer and the button, not floating unrelated on every page.
- In a top announcement bar for site-wide sales (see how to create a countdown sale banner).
- On event registration pages, next to the sign-up form.
Use urgency honestly
- Only show a deadline that really exists.
- Never reset a timer for returning visitors to fake urgency.
- When it expires, actually end the offer or update the page.
Tip: test the timer in a private window and on mobile, and check the expiry action works by setting a test date a few minutes ahead.
Pair the timer with a strong offer page: see how to create a landing page with Elementor.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Elementor countdown widget free?
The Countdown widget is part of Elementor Pro. Free countdown plugins or blocks work with any theme and the block editor.
What is an evergreen countdown timer?
A timer that starts when each visitor first arrives, for example 24 hours from their first visit. Use it only when the offer genuinely expires for that visitor.
What should happen when the countdown ends?
Hide the offer, show an 'Offer ended' message or redirect to an updated page. Never reset the timer and pretend the deadline is new.
Are fake countdown timers allowed?
Timers that reset or show deadlines that do not exist mislead customers and can break consumer-protection rules and advertising policies. Only show real deadlines.
