AppBlock vs Joystick AI
AppBlock
appblock.appJoystick AI
joystickai.comSide by side
| Figure | AppBlock | Joystick AI |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | $19/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| macOS | — | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | — |
| Android | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 2 | 3 |
| Spec score · Screen Time Management Apps | 8.2 (#9) | 7.8 (#17) |
| Privacy | The privacy policy says core blocking, configured rules, screen content read for blocking, and detailed usage statistics are processed locally and are not accessible to the operator, subject to stated exceptions. | The site says data is stored on the user's personal device, cloud integration is not required, and no data is shared with Joystick. |
Plans
In their own words
AppBlock
AppBlock helps manage screen time by blocking distracting apps, websites, URLs, and keywords. Users can create profiles that start automatically by time, day, location, or connected Wi-Fi. Strict Mode makes blocks harder to bypass and includes Cooldown and third-party approval options. Usage limits, app and website tracking, and reports show screen-time habits over time. Allowlist Mode blocks everything except selected essential apps. The iOS feature list includes schedules, Strict Mode, Quick Block, Allowlist, approval access, and Pomodoro sessions. Extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Brave offer Quick Block and scheduled website blocking. The maker presents uses for work, students, parents, ADHD, mental health, and well-being. Its privacy policy says core blocking rules, screen content read for blocking, and detailed usage statistics are processed locally, subject to stated exceptions. Installed-app package names are sent to servers for category-based blocking, and backups upload blocking configuration when that feature is used. The Free plan costs nothing and has platform-specific limits; a 7-day trial is listed.
Joystick AI
Joystick AI has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.