Need a reliable way to start your day without reaching for your phone? Your desktop can double as a handy reminder tool with the right setup. While there’s no built-in feature for this, creative workarounds exist for every user.
We’ll guide you through two approaches: command line tricks for tech lovers and simple software options for beginners. Both methods work smoothly across different versions and environments.
Why trust your system over a mobile device? No battery anxiety or missed alerts. Whether you need a meeting reminder or a morning nudge, these solutions keep you on track.
Ready to transform your machine into a productivity ally? Let’s explore the tools – from basic terminal commands to intuitive desktop apps.
Set an Alarm Clock in Ubuntu Using Command Line
Transform your terminal into a precise timekeeping assistant. No extra apps needed—just built-in tools like sleep command and at. We’ll show you how to schedule alerts effortlessly.
Sleep Command Basics
The sleep command pauses your system for a specified time. Use it with audio playback for a simple alert:
$ sleep 8h && vlc alarm.mp3
Time formats are flexible:
- 8h for hours
- 45m for minutes
- 30s for quick reminders
Note: Keep the terminal open—closing it cancels the timer.
Advanced Scheduling with ‘at’
For exact times, install the at tool:
$ sudo apt install at
Schedule a one-time job like this:
- Type
$ at 8:00 tomorrow
- Enter your command (e.g.,
vlc alarm.mp3
) - Press Ctrl+D to save
Verify jobs with at -l
. Need recurring alerts? Cron works better for daily repeats.
Pro tip: Ensure atd
service runs (systemctl start atd
). Permission errors? Check /etc/at.allow
.
Configure Alarms with GNOME Clocks (GUI Method)
Prefer clicking buttons over typing code? This method’s for you. GNOME Clocks offers a sleek GUI to manage reminders visually. It’s often preinstalled, but if missing, grab it from the Software Center in minutes.
Installation Made Simple
Open the Ubuntu Software Center and search for “GNOME Clocks.” Click Install—no terminal required. Alternatively, use:
$ sudo snap install gnome-clocks
Stuck? Ensure snapd is active (systemctl status snapd
).
Creating Your First Alert
- Launch the application via Super key search or terminal
- Switch to the Alarms tab and hit the + button
- Pick a time using the intuitive wheel selector
- Toggle repeat days for recurring reminders
Pro tip: Name alarms (e.g., “Morning Coffee”) for quick identification.
Beyond Alarms: Extra Features
This software isn’t just for wake-up calls. Use the timer for productivity sprints or the stopwatch for workouts. World clocks help track global teammates.
- Timer: Count down with pause/reset options
- Stopwatch: Lap tracking for intervals
- World Clock: Pin frequently used timezones
Limitations to Note
Custom alert sounds aren’t supported—you’ll hear the default chime. For advanced audio control, consider KAlarm (KDE users) or third-party tools.
Why choose this? Ideal for office settings or visual learners who prefer menus over commands. Set it once, and your system handles the rest.
Alternative Alarm Clock Tools for Ubuntu
Looking beyond basic tools? Discover powerful alternatives for time management. Whether you crave audio customization or scriptable triggers, these options deliver.
KAlarm for KDE Users
Prefer KDE? KAlarm shines with file-based triggers and test features. Set reminders to play specific media files or run scripts at precise times. Ideal for complex schedules.
Terminal Timer Script
For terminal lovers, install a script via:
$ curl -o ~/timer [URL] && chmod +x ~/timer
Run it with custom intervals (e.g., ./timer 90m
). Pair with mplayer for audible alerts.
Creative Stopwatch Hack
Need a quick timer? Use:
$ time cat
Press Ctrl+C to see elapsed time. Perfect for impromptu tracking.
- GUI vs. CLI: Visual tools suit beginners; scripts offer endless tweaks.
- Cross-Distro Ready: Terminal methods work on most systems.
- Automate: Save commands as bash aliases for reuse.
Pro Tip: Combine tools! Use the at command to launch scripts at set times. Check dependencies (e.g., mplayer
) before relying on them.
Conclusion
Whether you love typing commands or clicking menus, your system offers solid ways to stay on schedule. The command line gives precise control, while GUI tools like GNOME Clocks keep things simple.
New to coding? Start with visual apps. Power users can mix both—set quick timers via terminal and manage repeats in the application. For daily routines, explore cron jobs to automate reminders.
Your setup grows with you. Try basic tools first, then add scripts or custom sounds later. Need help? Our community shares clever tweaks for every user.
Got a favorite method? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear how you manage time efficiently!