Side by side
| BreakTimer | Pati & Hav | |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux | Mac, Windows |
| Install | Downloads from GitHub (also Snap, .deb, .rpm, AppImage on Linux) | Mac App Store and Microsoft Store |
| Price | Free and open source (GPL-3.0) | Free with three pets; optional one-time packs, no subscription |
| Break types | One break with your own interval and length | One work/break rhythm that you set, from 10 seconds up |
| The reminder | A notification or a fullscreen window | A cat or a dog walks in and lies on your keyboard |
| Stepping away | Smart Breaks: resets when you're idle | Timer keeps a steady rhythm; pause for 30 min, 1 hour or until tomorrow |
| Calls & meetings | Disable for a set time | Meeting shield: waits for calls and presentations, starts 30 seconds after |
| Extras | Working hours, custom messages and colours, break tracking | Play lock, live desktop, postcards, Shortcuts/Siri, 11 languages |
BreakTimer details from its official website and GitHub repository (checked November 2026). BreakPet is not affiliated with BreakTimer.
Choose BreakTimer if…
- you use Linux,
- you want working hours and a timer that resets when you're away,
- you prefer free, open-source software.
Choose Pati or Hav if…
- you want breaks to wait for your calls automatically,
- you'd rather install from the Mac App Store or Microsoft Store,
- you'd like a cat or a dog to make the break fun.
Pati · The Break Cat
Hav · The Break Dog
Questions
Can I try Pati or Hav for free?
Yes. Both apps are free with three pets and the special-day guests, with all timer and break features included.
More guides
The 20-20-20 ruleSet it up in under a minuteBreak reminder for MacMenu bar, Shortcuts, Touch IDBreak reminder for WindowsSystem tray, Windows HelloBest break reminder apps (2026)Seven apps, compared fairlyA desktop pet with a jobA cat or dog that gets you upStretchly alternativeAn honest comparisonTime Out alternativeTime Out vs. Pati and HavCat break timerPati, the cat on your keyboard