diff --git a/systemd/pkgwatch.timer b/systemd/pkgwatch.timer
index fb65478..c8f436f 100644
--- a/systemd/pkgwatch.timer
+++ b/systemd/pkgwatch.timer
@@ -1,9 +1,12 @@
-# Periodic, not persistent (see docs/SPEC.md > Vision): a missed run while
-# the machine was off just gets caught by the next tick, no catch-up burst.
+# Periodic, not persistent (see docs/SPEC.md > Vision): no catch-up burst
+# for missed ticks. The laptop is only on while logged in, so the user
+# manager starting (= login) is what matters: OnStartupSec runs a check
+# shortly after login instead of waiting up to an hour for the next tick.
 [Unit]
 Description=Run pkgwatch hourly
 
 [Timer]
+OnStartupSec=2min
 OnCalendar=hourly
 RandomizedDelaySec=5min
 Persistent=false