KING JIM's Visual Bar Timer has returned as a new model, the “Visual Bar Timer Plus.” In addition to a four-color bar and backlight, it adds Type-C power, dial-based settings and extended timing capabilities.
The writer had continued using the previous model, but describes the new model's four-color bar as a major improvement, making it easier to intuitively track the remaining time.
Power has changed from batteries to a rechargeable system, and the display can now turn off automatically after a set period. Settings have changed from buttons to a dial, the maximum timing period is now 199 minutes 59 seconds, and the timer adds an alert when half the time has elapsed, along with a repeat-timing function.
Brightness can now be adjusted across 3 levels using the backlight, while the volume can be set to high, low or mute. The unit is slightly larger than the previous model, so opinions are likely to vary depending on users' preferred placement.
Overall, the new model is characterized by added features focused on making the remaining time easier to grasp intuitively and improving ease of use.