OSRS AFK Timer: Everything to Know

AFK timers have sparked heated debates across the Old School RuneScape community for years. Players consistently voice frustration over the system's restrictive nature, which forces frequent interaction even during traditionally passive activities like fishing, woodcutting, or combat training.

The timer system directly impacts how players approach the game, often interrupting extended training sessions and limiting the relaxed gameplay experience many seek. Recent updates to the AFK timer system have brought significant changes that every player needs to understand.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly what AFK timers are, how they function in OSRS, and cover the latest modifications that could reshape your gameplay approach.

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What Are AFK Timers in OSRS?

In Old School RuneScape, the AFK timer refers to how long your character can sit inactive before the game automatically logs you out to free server resources or prevent hogging content.

The system monitors player activity through mouse movements, clicks, and chat inputs. Remaining idle for approximately 5 minutes without any of these interactions results in the game kicking you back to the login screen.

This mechanic exists for practical reasons. OSRS servers need to manage thousands of concurrent players efficiently. Inactive accounts sitting in popular training spots or resource areas can block access for active players while consuming server capacity unnecessarily.

However, the 5-minute timer created significant player frustration. Many OSRS activities like fishing, woodcutting, mining, and combat training are designed to be semi-passive. Players expect to step away briefly or multitask while their character continues gathering resources or fighting monsters.

This widespread player dissatisfaction eventually prompted the OSRS development team to reconsider the system. The community's vocal feedback about the timer's impact on gameplay experience led to significant changes in how AFK mechanics function across different activities.

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Recent Changes to OSRS AFK Timer

OSRS finally delivered the system players demanded for years, a customizable AFK logout timer in the in-game settings for both PC and mobile players. This update allows you to extend your idle time up to 25 minutes before automatic logout.

The new setting puts control back in players' hands. You can now match your AFK timer to your preferred playstyle and activities without constant interruptions.

To change your AFK settings:

1. Launch OSRS and join your server

2. Head into Settings

3. Navigate to the "Gameplay" tab

4. Scroll down until you find "AFK logout timer" and select your preferred option

The available options are:

• 5 minutes (default)

• 10 minutes

• 15 minutes

• 20 minutes

• 25 minutes

The setting saves per device and persists across sessions. You won't need to reconfigure it every time you log in. While the developers originally aimed for a 30-minute maximum timer, they prioritized delivering the system quickly to address player concerns. The team continues working on technical issues and hopes to implement the full 30-minute option when feasible.

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Final Words

The customizable AFK timer update addresses years of player complaints about restrictive logout mechanics. You can now choose idle times from 5 to 25 minutes, making skilling and combat training far less frustrating.

This change gives players control over their gameplay experience while maintaining server stability. The setting persists across sessions, so you configure it once and enjoy uninterrupted training sessions that match your preferred playstyle.

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