TL;DR
A handful of apps and browser extensions promise to cut down time-wasting habits by blocking sites, apps or even whole devices. Options range from lightweight, free extensions to paid cross-device tools and rigid lockdown modes for strict accountability.
What happened
As people look to improve productivity, several distraction-blocking tools are highlighted for different needs. Freedom can block chosen sites and apps across multiple devices, schedule recurring sessions, disable the internet entirely, and enforce sessions with a "Locked Mode"; it starts at $3.33 per month billed annually, with other billing options and a seven-day trial. Cold Turkey emphasizes strict locking: once a block starts it is effectively non‑cancelable, and a "Frozen Turkey" mode can lock a computer; basic features are free and a one-time $39 fee unlocks scheduling and app blocking. Opal provides focus blocks and category-based limits for iPhone, Android and desktop, with usage stats and a focus score; basic use is free, with premium tiers. LeechBlock NG is a free browser extension that blocks or delays page loads. Forest gamifies focus by growing virtual trees and donates to real planting projects; it offers a free browser extension and paid mobile apps.
Why it matters
- Different approaches match different self-control styles — from soft nudges to irreversible lockdowns.
- Cross-device blocking can stop distractions when users switch between phones, tablets and laptops.
- Built-in scheduling and recurring sessions help make focus periods habitual rather than ad hoc.
- Tracking features and gamification provide feedback that can reinforce sustained behavior change.
Key facts
- Freedom blocks sites and apps across devices, can cut internet access entirely, and offers a Locked Mode to prevent early session termination.
- Freedom pricing starts at $3.33 per month when billed annually, $8.99 per month billed monthly, and includes a $199 lifetime option plus a seven-day free trial.
- Cold Turkey makes it difficult to stop an active block, includes a "Frozen Turkey" computer lock mode, and offers basic features for free; a one-time $39 fee unlocks scheduling and app blocking.
- Opal runs on iPhone, Android and desktop, supports category-based blocks (social, games, messaging), offers focus scores and reports, with premium tiers at $19.99 per month or $99 per year.
- LeechBlock NG is a free browser extension that blocks or delays loading of selected websites and allows multiple block sets and schedules.
- LeechBlock's browser-only nature means users can sometimes bypass blocks by switching browsers.
- Forest turns focused time into a virtual forest; leaving the app kills the virtual tree, and coins earned can support real-world tree-planting efforts.
- Forest's browser extension is free; the iOS app costs $3.99 and the Android app is free with ads or $1.99 to remove ads.
What to watch next
- How locking modes (Locked Mode in Freedom, Frozen Turkey in Cold Turkey) affect workflows and whether they create friction for urgent tasks.
- Costs and billing models across tools: free tiers may be limited while recurring subscriptions or one-time fees vary widely.
- Cross-device compatibility and whether a chosen tool covers all platforms you use (desktop, mobile, different operating systems).
Quick glossary
- Distraction blocker: Software that prevents access to specified websites, apps or internet connectivity to reduce interruptions and improve focus.
- Locked Mode: A hard enforcement setting that stops users from ending a blocking session before the scheduled time.
- Browser extension: A small add-on that extends browser functionality, often used to block sites or modify web behavior within that browser only.
- Recurring session: A scheduled, repeatable block of time during which specified distractions are restricted automatically.
- Focus score: A metric some apps provide to summarize time spent on productive activities versus distracted time.
Reader FAQ
Are any of these tools free to use?
Yes. LeechBlock NG and the basic features of Cold Turkey, Opal and Forest offer free options; paid tiers add scheduling, cross-device support or harder blocking.
Can you override a block once it starts?
Cold Turkey is designed to make blocks effectively irreversible once started; Freedom offers a Locked Mode to prevent early termination; ease of override varies by app.
Do these tools work across devices?
Freedom advertises cross-device blocking; Opal supports iPhone, Android and desktop. LeechBlock is a browser extension and works only within the browser it’s installed on.
Do these apps provide usage tracking or progress reports?
Opal includes a focus score and reports, and Forest tracks session history and gamifies progress; not all apps offer the same analytics.
If you’re someone who struggles to stay on task or simply want to boost your productivity as the new year approaches, there are several apps and extensions you can try…
Sources
- The best distraction blockers to jumpstart your focus in the new year
- The 7 best apps to help you focus and block distractions in …
- The 7 best apps to help you focus and block distractions in 2025
- Limit: Screen Time for Focus – App Store – Apple
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