Creating Your First Email Countdown Timer
Learn how to create a countdown timer for email campaigns in under 2 minutes. Free animated GIF timer that works in Gmail, Outlook, and every ESP.
Sign up for a free account
Go to gifylabs.com/signup and create your free account. No credit card required — the free plan includes 3 active timers with unlimited impressions.
Click "Create Timer" from your dashboard
From your dashboard, click the "Create Timer" button. You can also browse the template gallery for pre-designed timer styles.
Choose a template or start blank
Pick a template that matches your campaign style — minimal, bold, gradient, or seasonal. Each template is fully customizable after selection.
Set your countdown target
Choose between a fixed date (e.g., "Sale ends January 31 at midnight") or an evergreen duration (e.g., "24 hours from email open"). Fixed dates count down to a specific moment; evergreen timers create personalized deadlines for each recipient.
Customize the appearance
Adjust colors, fonts, digit style, labels, separator, and background. Use the real-time preview to see exactly how your timer will look in an email.
Preview and save
Preview your timer in real-time as you make changes. When you're happy with the design, click "Save" to generate your timer.
Copy the embed code
Copy the embed code from your dashboard. It's a simple <img> tag that works in every email client — Gmail, Outlook, Apple Mail, Yahoo, and more.
Paste into your email template
Paste the embed code into your email builder's HTML or code block. The timer will display as an animated GIF that counts down in real-time when recipients open the email.
Tips
Always send a test email to yourself before launching your campaign to verify the timer renders correctly.
Place the timer above the fold, near your call-to-action button, for maximum impact.
Use evergreen timers for automated drip campaigns so each recipient gets their own personalized deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
Adding a Countdown Timer in Mailchimp
Embed a live countdown timer in Mailchimp emails using the drag-and-drop editor.
Read guide →Adding a Countdown Timer in Klaviyo
Embed a live countdown timer in Klaviyo emails and automated flows.
Read guide →Using Evergreen Timers
Create personalized countdowns that start fresh for each email recipient.
Read guide →Best Practices for Email Countdown Timers
Tips to maximize conversions and engagement with countdown timers.
Read guide →Ready to Create Your Countdown Timer?
Get started for free — no credit card required. Create your first timer in under 2 minutes.