How to Display Seconds on Ubuntu Top Menu Clock
Displaying seconds on the Ubuntu top menu clock adds exact time tracking to your screen for precise tasks and schedules. The standard top bar clock only shows hours and minutes by default, but you can turn on seconds using a quick system setting.
This trick works on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and other recent versions that use the GNOME desktop. You just need to install a free tool called GNOME Tweaks to flip the switch in a few clicks.
Install the “Extension Manager” app from the Ubuntu Software store, then search for and install the “Clock Seconds” extension within Extension Manager. The seconds will immediately appear on your top menu bar clock.
Why add seconds to your clock?
Precise timing matters for tasks like joining meetings right on time or tracking time-sensitive activities.
Show seconds with the clock on the top menu bar
Ubuntu drops support for a built-in setting for displaying seconds on the clock. A GNOME extension fills this gap. The Extension Manager app serves as a great tool for adding this and other customizations to the Ubuntu interface.
Managing these tweaks through the Extension Manager app delivers the best experience.
1. Open the app launcher and search for Extension Manager. Installing it from the Ubuntu Software store works if the utility is missing.
2. Launch the app and click on the Browse tab.
3. Search for the extension named Clock Seconds.
4. Click the Install button next to the extension.
The seconds appear on the top menu bar immediately after installation. Restarting the computer remains unnecessary.
A note on Dconf Editor
Older guides might point toward Dconf Editor or terminal commands, but those methods fail on newer Ubuntu versions like 23.10 and later. Modern Ubuntu environments rely on Extension Manager for a more dependable way to adjust clock settings.
Dconf Editor compares closely to the Windows Registry Editor for anyone coming from Windows. Sticking with the Extension Manager remains the wiser choice for modern Ubuntu setups.
Conclusion
Restoring seconds on the clock takes little effort despite Ubuntu removing the direct setting. Tools like Extension Manager provide customization for Ubuntu clock seconds, allowing the top menu bar clock to show seconds once again.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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