M5Dial Toggl Time Tracker

Project Description

Transform your time tracking workflow with this beautiful, intuitive time tracking device built on the M5Stack Dial. This project creates a dedicated hardware interface for Toggl Track that combines the convenience of physical controls with the power of cloud-based time management.

What It Does

The M5Dial Toggl Tracker is a circular touchscreen time tracking device that seamlessly integrates with the Toggl Track API. It features:

• 8 Quick-Access Project Slots for your most frequently used projects
• Circular Menu Navigation with smooth animations controlled by the rotary encoder
• One-Touch Time Tracking - simply tap the center or press the encoder to start/stop timers
• Real-Time Sync with your Toggl Track account
• Persistent Storage for WiFi credentials and API settings
• Beautiful Custom UI with project-specific icons and colors

Hardware Used

M5Stack M5Dial (ESP32-S3)

• 1.28" Round Touch Display (240x240 pixels)
• Built-in rotary encoder with push button
• WiFi connectivity
• RTC for accurate timekeeping
• Rechargeable battery

Software & Libraries

• ESP-IDF v5.5 (Development Framework)
• LovyanGFX (Graphics rendering)
• Custom Toggl API Integration

What Makes This Project Special

Intuitive Physical Interface

Unlike smartphone apps or desktop software, this dedicated device provides tactile feedback through its rotary encoder, making time tracking feel natural and immediate.

Beautiful Circular UI

The custom-designed interface takes full advantage of the round display, with smooth animations and a color-coded project system that makes identification instant.

Seamless Integration

Full bidirectional sync with Toggl Track means your time entries appear in your dashboard immediately, while maintaining all the powerful reporting features you're used to.

Always-On Convenience

As a dedicated device, it's always ready to track time without the distractions of phones or computers. The battery life supports all-day use.

Customizable Project Management

Easy-to-modify project icons and colors allow you to personalize the device for your specific workflow and visual preferences.

Key Features

• Quick Setup: Built-in WiFi configuration and Toggl API token entry
• Visual Feedback: Color-coded projects with custom icons
• Touch + Rotary Control: Multiple input methods for different preferences
• Persistent Memory: Remembers your settings between power cycles
• Real-Time Updates: Immediate sync with Toggl Track cloud service
• Low Power Design: Optimized for battery operation

Use Cases

Perfect for:

• Freelancers tracking billable hours
• Consultants managing multiple clients
• Students monitoring study time
• Anyone wanting to improve time awareness
• Teams needing dedicated time tracking stations

This project demonstrates how modern IoT hardware can create purpose-built solutions that are more intuitive and efficient than general-purpose software applications.