AppBlock vs ScreenZen

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.

ScreenZen blocks selected apps and websites to help people reduce screen time. Users can set daily limits, schedule focus periods, use apps mindfully and track progress; schedules and limits can also control which selected targets are blocked. Lock mode is designed to resist common workarounds and can prevent uninstalling. The core app is free and runs on Android, iOS, macOS and Windows without requiring an account. The maker says its settings and blocking data stay on the device and that the core app collects no personally identifiable information. Optional social accountability and Halo features may store account details and selected usage or Halo data in Google Firebase and cloud storage. Halo uses Bluetooth to block selected apps and websites when a device enters a chosen physical boundary. It supports unlimited iOS 16.4+ or Android 12.0+ phones and tablets, adjustable radius up to 50 ft, and custom schedules. Halo costs $49, paid once; an account is required to manage it and add users. ScreenZen’s terms require users to be at least 13 and say it is not medical or mental-health advice.