Windows has the best visual timer
Every time I want to use pomodoro or a timer for a chunk of focused work I end up with the same question: why can't I turn off the numbers on the timers?
There is a very different feeling to look at a timer with a number counting down and a timer with just a progress bar going down. The precision of the numbers make the timer more of a stressful element for me where it is harder to get into flow. But when I don't know exactly how many seconds are left it is easier to relax and just focus.
I don't know why, but a work timer with a progress bar and no numbers work better for me.
Unfortunately, I have not found a simple timer like this, either as an app or as an actual clock timer. A few apps like Forest have this feature, but I'm not paying a monthly subscription to use just one of the features they have.
The only one I've found is the built in clock in windows. The Focus mode of the clock app lets me turn off the numbers and becomes a circular progress bar that counts up for however long I set the timer. The downside is that it is a pomodoro clone, so it adds breaks if I set it over 20 minutes. So a focus period of 30 or 40 minutes without a break doesn't work.
One day I might find a timer that is better. But for now windows is the one. I am very open to suggestions if you know of any visual timers with no bells and whistles outside of that. Find me on blue sky and let me know!