Accurate timekeeping is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. Time clocks are indispensable tools that help employers track employee work hours, manage payroll efficiently, ensure compliance with labor laws, and prevent time theft. Whether you’re managing a small team or overseeing a large workforce, investing in a reliable time clock system can streamline operations and eliminate manual errors in attendance tracking.
The Evolution of Time Clocks
Time clocks have come a long way from traditional punch card systems. Modern solutions incorporate advanced technology to enhance accuracy, security, and convenience. Some of the latest innovations include:
- Biometric time clocks – Utilize fingerprint or facial recognition to prevent “buddy punching.”
- Proximity card readers – Employees clock in using RFID badges or key fobs.
- App-based and web-based time clocks – Allow employees to punch in remotely via mobile apps, ideal for remote workforces.
- Cloud-based solutions – Provide real-time access to employee attendance data from anywhere.
Each type of time clock serves different business needs, depending on factors like workforce size, security requirements, and payroll system integration.
Choosing the Right Time Clock for Your Business
Selecting the best time clock depends on several factors, including:
1. Connectivity and Integration
Look for time clocks that seamlessly integrate with payroll software like QuickBooks, ADP, or Paychex. Cloud-based systems provide real-time monitoring, while offline systems store data locally and require periodic uploads.
2. Security and Fraud Prevention
To prevent “buddy punching” (employees clocking in for each other), biometric systems offer an added layer of security. Face and fingerprint recognition eliminate the risk of time fraud.
3. Ease of Use and Maintenance
User-friendly interfaces, simple setup, and minimal maintenance are crucial for busy workplaces. Thermal time clocks, for example, require no ink ribbons, reducing upkeep costs.
4. Scalability and Capacity
Small businesses may only need a basic system, while enterprises with hundreds of employees should invest in time clocks that can handle high-volume use.
The Best Time Clocks You Can Buy
After researching and testing numerous models, we’ve compiled a list of the best time clocks for businesses. Each system was evaluated based on accuracy, reliability, ease of use, and additional features.
Final Thoughts
Investing in the right time clock can significantly improve efficiency, security, and payroll accuracy. Whether you need a simple punch card system or an advanced biometric time clock, the right choice will depend on your business size, budget, and specific needs. By incorporating these advanced systems into your workflow, you can reduce timekeeping errors, prevent time fraud, and simplify payroll processing, ultimately saving your business time and money.
Best Time Clocks
We’ve tested dozens of time clocks to find the most reliable options for businesses of all sizes. Our list includes both traditional punch clocks and modern digital systems that help track employee hours accurately.
These top picks combine ease of use with robust features to streamline your payroll process.
uPunch Small Business Time Clock Bundle
This complete starter kit offers everything small businesses need for accurate employee time tracking without the complexity of digital systems.
Pros
- Complete bundle with all necessary components
- Simple setup with no complicated programming
- Reliable mechanical operation with minimal maintenance
Cons
- Programming date/time can be challenging
- Manual calculation of hours required
- Print quality may deteriorate over time
We recently tested the uPunch HN1500 Time Clock Bundle in our office, and it’s a solid choice for small businesses looking for a straightforward timekeeping solution.
The package includes everything needed to get started: the time clock unit, 100 time cards, a card rack, and even replacement ribbon.
Setting up the clock was fairly quick, though adjusting the time settings took some patience. Once mounted on our wall, employees found it intuitive to use.
The automatic card alignment feature works well, preventing those annoying misalignments that can make time cards unreadable or inaccurate.
What impressed us most was the durability of the unit. Unlike digital options that can glitch or require software updates, this mechanical system just works day after day.
The two-year warranty provides peace of mind, though we haven’t needed to use it. For businesses with fewer than 10 employees, this bundle offers an affordable, reliable way to track work hours without subscription fees or complicated technology.
uPunch Digital Time Clock and Date Stamp
We found the uPunch CR1000 to be an excellent all-in-one solution for small businesses looking to track employee hours accurately while also managing document organization.
Pros
- Digital accuracy eliminates manual timekeeping errors
- Dual functionality as both time clock and date stamp saves desk space
- Simple setup process with easy-to-follow instructions
Cons
- Print quality can sometimes be inconsistent
- Plastic construction feels less durable than metal alternatives
- Limited functionality compared to app-based systems
When we tested this time clock in our office, the 2-in-1 design immediately stood out.
The system comes with everything needed to get started – 50 time cards, a ribbon, and two keys. Setup took less than 10 minutes, even for someone with limited technical experience.
The digital display is bright and easy to read, making it simple for employees to see the exact time when they punch in or out. We particularly liked the window in the cover that shows where to insert time cards.
This small design feature prevents the frustration of misaligned punches that can happen with other models.
Using the date stamp function saved us considerable time when processing invoices and mail. The preset messages like “RECEIVED” and “PAID” eliminated the need for separate rubber stamps.
While the plastic casing doesn’t feel as substantial as some premium models, it’s lightweight and doesn’t take up much desk space. For small businesses with up to 15 employees, this uPunch system provides reliable time tracking without breaking the budget.
Amano TCX-35 Electronic Time Clock
The Amano TCX-35 is an excellent investment for businesses seeking a reliable, American-made time clock that combines simplicity with accuracy.
Pros
- Made in USA with exceptional build quality
- User-friendly with both automatic and manual print options
- Battery backup prevents data loss during power outages
Cons
- More expensive than imported alternatives
- Limited advanced features compared to digital systems
- Requires replacement ribbon cartridges
We recently tested the Amano TCX-35 in our office, and it’s clear why this time clock earns such high ratings.
The solid construction immediately stands out – this isn’t a flimsy plastic device that will break after a few months of use.
Setting up the clock was surprisingly simple. Within minutes, we had it programmed with our preferred time format.
The quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping, which is crucial for payroll purposes. Employees found it intuitive to use, with clear alignment guides for timecards.
The flexibility to mount it on a wall or use it on a desk is a nice touch. We appreciate the automatic date changes and programmable print formats that eliminate manual adjustments.
The battery backup provides peace of mind during power interruptions, ensuring no data loss. For businesses seeking reliability over flashy features, this American-made time clock delivers consistent performance day after day.
Tymelix App-Based Time Clock
The Tymelix Time Clock offers a complete attendance solution for small businesses with no monthly fees and multiple verification methods.
Pros
- Multiple clock-in options (face, fingerprint, and card)
- No recurring subscription costs
- Custom attendance rules for different departments
Cons
- Limited to 100 employees
- Some users report occasional malfunctions
- Initial setup requires time investment
We tested the Tymelix Time Clock in our office for several weeks. The setup was straightforward using the free app.
What impressed us most was the flexibility – employees could clock in using facial recognition, fingerprint, or the included ID cards.
The app made managing attendance records simple. We could easily fix missed punches, customize break times, and set up overtime rules.
Our payroll process got much faster since we could export reports directly from the app. No more manual time calculations!
Different departments need different rules, and this system handles that well. We set up specific time ranges for our warehouse team and office staff.
The data stays on your device, so there’s no worry about privacy or internet outages. The system works in multiple languages too, which helped with our diverse staff.
For small businesses looking to upgrade from paper timesheets, this provides great value. The lack of monthly fees saved us money compared to cloud-based options.
While it won’t handle hundreds of employees, it’s perfect for small to mid-sized teams needing reliable time tracking without ongoing costs.
Pyramid 2500 Time Clock Bundle
This comprehensive time clock bundle offers reliable employee time tracking with everything a small business needs in one convenient package.
Pros
- Setup takes just minutes with no complicated installation
- Handles unlimited employees with three punch cycles per day
- Includes all necessary supplies (cards, ribbons, rack, keys)
Cons
- Card rack slots can be tight when employees are in a hurry
- Requires manual card handling unlike digital systems
- Wall anchors not included for mounting
We recently tried the Pyramid 2500 Time Clock Bundle in our office, and it’s impressively straightforward.
The clock comes ready to use almost immediately after unboxing. We had it up and running in under two minutes, which saved us valuable setup time.
The auto-aligning mechanism is a standout feature. When our team members insert their cards, the device properly aligns them for accurate punching.
The six-column format easily handles multiple punch cycles throughout the day, perfect for tracking start times, breaks, and lunches. We appreciate the active column indicators that show employees exactly where to punch next.
The bundle truly includes everything needed to get started. With 100 time cards, two ink ribbons, a card rack, and security keys, we didn’t need to purchase anything extra.
The tamper-proof lock prevents unauthorized changes, which gives us peace of mind about time theft. The built-in battery backup has also proven helpful during brief power outages, keeping all settings intact without requiring reset.
Lathem 2100HD Heavy Duty Time Clock
The Lathem 2100HD is worth every penny for businesses seeking a reliable, low-maintenance time clock that can handle high-volume use while providing clear, consistent punches.
Pros
- Maintenance-free thermal printing eliminates messy ribbons
- Large, easy-to-read LCD display visible from a distance
- Simple setup with intuitive EZSet rotary knob
Cons
- Requires special thermal time cards
- Somewhat bulky compared to digital alternatives
- Higher price point than basic models
We recently tested the Lathem 2100HD in our office, and its heavy-duty construction immediately stood out.
This isn’t your flimsy, basic time clock – it’s built like a tank with solid materials that feel like they’ll last for years even in busy environments.
The thermal printing technology is a game-changer. No more dealing with ink ribbons or smudged time cards! The prints come out crystal clear every time, and the Tru-Align system with its helpful LED indicator makes it nearly impossible for employees to misalign their cards.
Even our less tech-savvy team members were able to punch in perfectly on their first try.
Setting up different print formats was surprisingly easy with the EZSet knob. We switched between regular minutes and hundredths of an hour with a simple turn.
The large LCD display is another highlight – you can clearly see the time and date from across the room. While it does require specific thermal time cards (it comes with 25 to start), the convenience of never having to replace ribbons more than makes up for this limitation.
KUIIYER 2-in-1 Time Clock
This biometric time clock offers solid value for small businesses needing simple attendance tracking without monthly fees or complicated setup.
Pros
- Fast fingerprint recognition (under 0.5 seconds)
- Supports up to 1000 employees with two identification methods
- Easy data export via USB drive with no internet required
Cons
- Time accuracy issues reported by some users
- Limited reporting capabilities compared to cloud systems
- Setup instructions could be clearer for new users
We recently tested the KUIIYER biometric time clock in our office of 25 employees. The fingerprint scanner works surprisingly well, quickly identifying our team members without the frustrating failed scans we experienced with previous units.
The color display is bright and easy to read, showing employee names and clock times clearly.
What makes this system stand out is its offline functionality. There’s no need for internet connection or monthly subscription fees. We simply download attendance data to a USB drive when needed for payroll processing.
The system handles up to 1000 users, though we found it best suited for smaller teams under 100 people.
Setup took about 30 minutes, including registering fingerprints for our staff.
The voice confirmation feature helps prevent mistakes, announcing when employees successfully clock in or out. While a few team members needed multiple attempts to register their fingerprints initially, daily use has been mostly trouble-free.
For small businesses wanting to move beyond paper time cards without complex software, this KUIIYER model offers a practical solution.
Acroprint Heavy Duty Time Recorder
The Acroprint 150QR4 is a reliable workhorse for businesses needing a traditional time clock solution despite requiring some manual adjustments.
Pros
- Extremely durable construction built for industrial settings
- Simple operation with consistent time printing
- Long-lasting performance with good typewheel warranty
Cons
- Requires manual month changes
- Calculations must be done by hand
- Bulkier than modern digital options
We recently tested the Acroprint 150QR4 time recorder in our office, and it delivers exactly what it promises – a straightforward, dependable punch clock system.
The solid construction immediately stands out. This isn’t a flimsy plastic device; it feels substantial and built to withstand years of daily use.
The time clock prints clearly on standard time cards with month, date, hour, and minutes. We found the printing to be consistent and easy to read, which makes payroll processing much simpler.
The 24-hour format (0-23 hours) eliminates any AM/PM confusion. One small annoyance is the need to manually change the month wheel, but this only takes a few seconds once every 30 days.
For businesses still using physical time cards, this Acroprint model offers serious longevity compared to digital options. Many users report their previous models lasting 10+ years of daily use.
While it lacks modern features like automatic calculations or digital storage, there’s something reassuring about its mechanical reliability. The constant ticking sound might bother some users in quiet office settings, but in warehouse or industrial environments, it’s not noticeable.
Overall, this is an effective traditional time clock that does exactly what it’s designed to do.
Lathem 1600E Electronic Time Clock
The Lathem 1600E is a reliable, versatile time clock that’s perfect for small businesses looking to track employee hours without monthly software fees.
Pros
- Self-adjusts for daylight savings and power outages
- Includes Tru-Align technology for perfect card alignment
- Doubles as a document stamp with multiple message options
Cons
- Requires manual calculation of hours
- More expensive than basic time clocks
- Some units may need replacement after 5-6 years
We recently tested the Lathem 1600E in our office, and it immediately impressed us with its easy setup.
After unpacking, we simply plugged it in, mounted it on the wall using the included hardware, and it was ready to go. The clock automatically synced with the atomic clock in Colorado, meaning we didn’t need to set the time manually.
The Tru-Align feature works exceptionally well. When employees insert their time cards, the system senses proper alignment and automatically stamps the card. This prevents messy, misaligned punches that can be hard to read.
The bright LED light illuminates the print area, making it easy to see punch times even in dim lighting.
Beyond tracking employee hours, we found the document stamping function incredibly useful. The ability to mark papers with “PAID,” “FILED,” or other preset messages helped us organize our paperwork better.
The internal perpetual calendar (good until 2099!) means you’ll never need to reset the date or time, even after power outages.
For a reliable time clock without monthly subscription fees, the Lathem 1600E delivers solid performance for small business needs.
HapAttend H3 Fingerprint Time Clock
This standalone fingerprint time clock is a solid investment for small businesses looking to track employee hours accurately without monthly fees.
Pros
- No monthly subscription costs
- Multiple clock-in options (fingerprint, RFID cards, passcode)
- Automatically calculates work hours
Cons
- Setup has a small learning curve
- Limited to offline use only
- Maximum capacity of 1000 employees
We tested the HapAttend H3 Fingerprint Time Clock in our small office last month, and it’s been a reliable addition to our workplace.
The compact black unit sits neatly on our front desk where employees can easily access it when entering or leaving.
Setting it up took about 5 minutes with the help of their YouTube tutorial. We particularly liked how the device stores data locally instead of connecting to the internet, which adds a layer of privacy protection.
Transferring time records via USB flash drive to our computer for payroll was straightforward and eliminated our previous paper-based system.
The automatic hour calculation feature has saved us considerable time during payroll processing. No more manually adding up hours or deciphering messy handwritten time cards!
Our team appreciates having multiple ways to clock in—fingerprint scan, RFID card (it comes with 5 cards), or personal passcode. The wall-mount option gives us flexibility in placement, though we chose to keep it on a desk for now.
uAttend JR2000 Cloud Time Clock
The uAttend JR2000 is a solid investment for small businesses needing reliable time tracking, though the monthly subscription fee might be a dealbreaker for some.
Pros
- Multiple clock-in options (fingerprint, PIN, RFID)
- Real-time attendance data accessible from anywhere
- User-friendly interface with easy setup
Cons
- Requires ongoing monthly subscription
- Occasional fingerprint recognition issues
- WiFi connectivity can be problematic
We recently tested the uAttend JR2000 in our office of about 12 employees.
Setting it up was surprisingly simple – it took less than 15 minutes to get the device connected and employee profiles created.
The touchscreen is responsive and the menu system is straightforward enough that everyone figured it out without much training.
The cloud-based system is where this device really shines. Being able to check who’s clocked in from our phones or laptops has been incredibly helpful, especially when some of us are working remotely.
The reporting features have saved our payroll department hours of manual calculation each pay period.
However, there are some drawbacks.
The fingerprint reader works about 90% of the time, which can be frustrating for employees rushing to clock in. We’ve found the PIN option to be more reliable.
The monthly subscription feels a bit steep for what you get, but the time saved on payroll processing does help offset the cost. Some users in our office also mentioned having trouble with WiFi connectivity, requiring us to use a wired connection instead.
Sourcing
NGTeco Cloud Time Clock
The NGTeco TC1 Cloud time clock offers excellent value with its free cloud service and no monthly fees, making it a smart choice for small to mid-sized businesses seeking to modernize their time tracking.
Pros
- Free cloud service with no subscription fees
- Remote access to punch data from anywhere
- Stores up to 200 users and 30,000 logs
Cons
- Setup can be complex for first-time users
- Software interface has a learning curve
- Only works on 2.4GHz WiFi networks
We recently tested the NGTeco TC1 Cloud time clock in our office and were impressed with its functionality.
The device allows employees to clock in using RFID cards, PINs, or even facial recognition. It feels solid and durable, with a simple wall mount design that worked well in our entryway.
What really stands out is the cloud connectivity. After setting it up, we could access all time data from our laptops and phones.
The automatic hour calculations saved us tons of time compared to our old manual system. When our internet briefly went down, the clock kept working offline and synced everything once reconnected.
The multi-language support is a nice touch for diverse workplaces.
We found the software powerful but noticed new users needed some time to get comfortable with all the features. Their customer service was helpful when we had questions about setting up different shift schedules.
Buying Guide
When looking for a time clock system, we need to consider several important features. These features will help us find the right solution for our workplace needs.
Basic Features to Consider
The first thing we should look at is the type of time clock. There are many options available today:
- Punch card systems – Traditional and simple
- Biometric systems – Uses fingerprints or facial recognition
- PIN-based systems – Requires employees to enter a code
- RFID/badge systems – Uses scannable cards or badges
- Mobile apps – Allows clocking in from smartphones
We should also think about how many employees will use the system. This affects the size and cost of the equipment we need.
Advanced Capabilities
Time clocks today can do more than just track when people arrive and leave.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Scheduling tools | Helps create and manage work schedules |
| PTO tracking | Manages vacation and sick time automatically |
| Overtime alerts | Notifies when employees approach overtime |
| Integration options | Works with payroll and HR software |
| Remote management | Allows admins to access from anywhere |
Installation and Support
Consider how the time clock will be installed and maintained. Cloud-based systems need less hardware but require internet connection. On-premise solutions offer more control but need IT support.
We should also check if training is included and what kind of customer support is offered. This can make a big difference in how well the system works for us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Time clocks help businesses track employee hours accurately and efficiently. The right system can save money, improve compliance, and make payroll processing easier.
What are the best time clocks suitable for small businesses?
Small businesses often benefit from cloud-based time clock systems like Homebase, When I Work, and QuickBooks Time. These options are affordable and don’t require expensive hardware.
We recommend systems with mobile app access, which allows employees to clock in from anywhere. This flexibility works well for businesses with remote workers or multiple locations.
Many small businesses also appreciate time clocks with scheduling features and payroll integration. These save time by eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors.
How do digital time clocks enhance employee time tracking?
Digital time clocks provide real-time visibility into attendance data. Managers can quickly spot trends like consistent lateness or overtime issues.
These systems eliminate paper timesheets and manual calculations. This reduction in paperwork can save businesses hours each pay period and reduce errors.
Many digital options include GPS tracking and photo verification. These features prevent buddy punching and ensure employees are actually at work when they clock in.
Which time clock systems are preferred by companies for accuracy and efficiency?
Biometric time clocks that use fingerprints or facial recognition are highly preferred for accuracy. They prevent time theft and ensure the right person is clocking in.
Cloud-based systems like ADP, Kronos, and TimeClock Plus rank highly among businesses. These platforms offer real-time reporting and integration with payroll systems.
Systems with automatic break deductions and overtime calculations help ensure compliance. They also reduce the administrative burden on HR and payroll staff.
What features should be considered when selecting a fingerprint time clock?
Storage capacity is crucial when selecting a fingerprint time clock. Consider how many employees need to use the system and how much historical data you need to store.
Look for systems with high-quality scanners that can read prints quickly and accurately. Lower-quality scanners may struggle with certain skin types or conditions.
We recommend choosing systems with backup authentication methods. If fingerprint scanning fails, employees should have alternate ways to clock in, like PIN codes or RFID cards.
Can you recommend any free applications for employees to clock in and out?
Homebase offers a free plan for businesses with one location. It includes basic time tracking, scheduling, and messaging features.
When I Work provides a free option for teams of up to 75 users. It offers mobile clock-in/out functionality and basic scheduling tools.
Google Sheets with time tracking templates can work as a no-cost solution. While not as feature-rich as dedicated apps, this option works well for very small teams.
What is the ‘7 minute rule’ and how does it apply to timekeeping practices?
The 7-minute rule comes from Department of Labor regulations about rounding time entries. Time can be rounded to the nearest quarter hour (15 minutes).
If an employee works 7 minutes or less of a quarter hour, employers can round down. If they work more than 7 minutes of that quarter hour, employers must round up.
This rule helps simplify payroll calculations but must be applied consistently. Employers cannot round down when employees clock in late but round up when they clock out early.
