---
title: "Gaussian Random Timer"
description: "Configure the JMeter Gaussian Random Timer timers: properties, defaults, and practical usage notes for building reliable load tests."
url: https://docs.jmeter.ai/components/gaussian-random-timer/
lastUpdated: 2026-10-01
source: docs.jmeter.ai
---

# Gaussian Random Timer

*Part of the **Timers** category. Also documented in context in the [full Component Reference](/user-manual/component-reference/#gaussian-random-timer).*

![Gaussian Random Timer](/images/screenshots/timers/gauss_random_timer.png)

This timer pauses each thread request for a random amount of time, with most
of the time intervals occurring near a particular value.
The total delay is the sum of the Gaussian distributed value (with mean `0.0` and standard deviation `1.0`) times
the deviation value you specify, and the offset value.
Another way to explain it, in Gaussian Random Timer, the variation around constant offset has a Gaussian curve distribution.

| Name | Required | Description |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Name | No | Descriptive name for this timer that is shown in the tree |
| Deviation | Yes | Deviation in milliseconds. |
| Constant Delay Offset | Yes | Number of milliseconds to pause in addition to the random delay. |

## Related

- [Timers, Think Time & Pacing](/topics/timers-pacing-throughput-modeling/)
- [Thread Calculator](/tools/thread-calculator/)
- [Full Component Reference](/user-manual/component-reference/)
- [Functions and Variables](/user-manual/functions/)