A bite-size daily crossword you can solve in a minute.
Mini 5
What is Mini 5?
Mini 5 is a free daily mini crossword played on a 5x5 grid. Everyone gets the same one puzzle each day, and your score is the time you take to complete it. The clock starts when you tap start and only stops when the grid is completely filled and correct.
How to play Mini 5
Tap start to begin the timer, then fill in the 5x5 crossword grid with the correct words. If you get stuck, you can use a hint to reveal one letter, but it costs 30 seconds on your clock. The puzzle is solved when the grid is full and every answer is right.
Tips & strategy
- Fill in the shortest and most obvious answers first to unlock letters for longer clues.
- Use hints only when you are truly stuck, since each one adds 30 seconds to your time.
- Check across and down clues together to confirm a letter before committing.
- Don't refresh or leave the page expecting the timer to pause—the clock keeps running.
- If you're competing for a fast score, move quickly through easy clues and save hard ones for later.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mini 5 free to play?
Yes, it is described as a free daily mini crossword puzzle.
How often is the puzzle updated?
There is one new crossword every day, and it is the same puzzle for everyone.
What happens if I use a hint?
A hint uncovers one letter and costs you 30 seconds on your clock.
Does the timer pause if I leave the game?
No. The clock never stops, even if you leave the page.
When does the timer start?
The timer starts when you tap the start button.
Where to play
Your next daily obsession
More games to explore after Mini 5.
Four mini games, sixteen words, one final puzzle.
Cluword is a free daily word puzzle that combines Wordle-style letter feedback with cryptic, crossword-style clues. Solve the hidden word in five attempts, using progressive hints when you need them.
One cryptic-crossword clue a day.
Beat the clock on a rapid word guess.
A daily word puzzle game.
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