Add a Countdown Timer to WordPress
Create your countdown, copy the embed code and paste it into a WordPress HTML block. The widget shows live inside your post or page — no plugin to install.
Why use it
01
No plugin to install
No plugin to maintain and no updates to watch: the countdown is just an iframe. Zero impact on your WordPress site's security and performance.
02
Works with Gutenberg, Elementor & Divi
Paste the code into a Gutenberg “Custom HTML” block, an Elementor HTML widget or a Divi Code module. The timer works across every page builder.
03
Live & responsive countdown
The widget updates in real time and adapts to your content width. 9 designs, as a box, a bar or a full-width section, custom colours: everything is set before you embed.
04
Perfect for launches & promos
Product release, limited offer, webinar, registration opening: a countdown visible on your WordPress page builds urgency and boosts conversions.
Playground
Try the widget before you embed it
Transparent background, live bar, colors, templates: try every option on a sample site and watch the code write itself.
How it works
Step 1
Set up your widget in the widget page tool: deadline, format (box, bar or full-width section) and style.
Step 2
Create it and copy the code shown.
Step 3
Paste it into a Custom HTML block in your post, page or WooCommerce product, then publish.
Does WordPress have a countdown block?
No. WordPress has no countdown block of its own. The usual routes are a plugin, the Countdown widget of Elementor Pro, or an embed: an iframe code pasted into a Custom HTML block. On WordPress.com, that block only accepts iframes on a paid plan with hosting features turned on.
| Option | What you get | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Countdown plugin | A countdown block or shortcode, styled from WordPress. | Limit — One more plugin to install, update and keep compatible. |
| Elementor Pro Countdown widget | Built into the page builder, including an “evergreen” timer per visitor. | Limit — Requires Elementor Pro. |
| WatchIsUp iframe | Code pasted into a Custom HTML block, an Elementor HTML widget or a Divi Code module; 9 designs, no plugin. | Limit — Loaded from our site, with a small link to WatchIsUp under it; on WordPress.com, needs a paid plan with hosting features. |
Frequently asked questions
No. The countdown embeds through a simple iframe code pasted into an HTML block. No plugin to install, so no risk of conflicts or slowdowns.
In the editor, add a “Custom HTML” block, paste the provided iframe code, then preview or publish. The widget appears right inside your content.
Yes. Use Elementor's “HTML” widget or Divi's “Code” module and paste the same iframe code. The countdown renders in any page builder.
Yes, embedding is 100% free with no sign-up. The free widget shows a small “Powered by WatchIsUp” label in the corner and opens the countdown page when clicked. Need it fully on-brand? The Pro embed ($9.99, one-time, per countdown) removes the label and the link, and adds a transparent background, a live bar, hideable title, description or date, and your brand colors.