Blitz · 5 min, no increment

5+0 Chess Clock

Five minutes each, no increment — the most popular casual blitz control there is. Clean, fast, no fuss.

About the 5+0 time control

If you’ve played a quick game with a friend or online, it was probably 5+0. With no increment, winning positions can still be lost on the flag, which adds drama but rewards clock awareness.

It’s the default starting point for blitz and the control most people picture when they say “a five-minute game.”

In short: 5 minutes per player with no increment, in the blitz range. Tap below to start it now, or read more about how the time-control tiers compare.

▶ Play 5+0 now

Frequently asked

Is 5+0 good for beginners?

It’s fun, but rapid is better for actually learning. Enjoy 5+0, do your studying slower.

Why is there no increment in 5+0?

Simplicity and tradition — it makes the clock part of the contest, which is part of blitz’s appeal.

Other blitz controls