Egg Boiling Time Estimate
Calculate how long to boil eggs for soft, medium or hard yolks.
Last updated · View algorithm, constants and default inputs (JSON)
About this calculator
Use this as a starting estimate for boiling eggs. It applies fixed base times with simple adjustments for size, starting temperature, and altitude; actual time varies with method, pan, water volume, and burner. At higher elevations, boiling temperatures are lower and cooking may take longer. Cook eggs thoroughly until yolks are firm.
Worked example
calculated with the default values below
Desired yolk firmness Hard boiled · Egg size Large · Starting temperature Straight from the fridge · Altitude 0 ft Estimated boiling time 10.0 min · Ice bath afterwards 2 min · Total adjustment from base 0.0 min
General background references
Disclaimer
These calculators give general cooking guidance. Ingredient density, oven calibration, altitude and equipment all vary, and safe minimum internal temperatures always take precedence over timings. Follow the food-safety advice issued by your national authority.
Implementation source
This record describes the implementation used by this page. It is not independent validation. External references, when available, support only the stated formula or definition; estimates and custom rules retain their own assumptions.
Formula and variables
t = b + s + T + A ÷ 1000
- b
- Base time by doneness: soft 5, medium 7, hard 10 (min)
- s
- Size adjustment: small −1, medium −0.5, XL +1 (min)
- T
- Start temp adjustment: fridge 0, room −1 (min)
- A
- Altitude (ft)
- t
- Total boiling time (min)
The base times and one-minute-per-1,000-ft adjustment are simplified estimates, not a universal recipe. Cooking method matters; use a tested recipe and cook eggs until yolks are firm.
Frequently asked questions
Why can altitude change the time?
Higher elevations lower water’s boiling temperature, so boiling foods can take longer. This calculator adds one minute per 1,000 ft as a rough adjustment, not an exact rule. Cooking method matters: USDA’s covered, heat-off method stands large eggs for 15 minutes after the water reaches a boil. Follow a tested recipe and cook until yolks are firm.