Apple Screen Time vs SmartBreak
Apple Screen Time
apple.comSmartBreak
inchwest.comSide by side
| Figure | Apple Screen Time | SmartBreak |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Spec score · Screen Time Management Apps | 8.3 (#8) | 7.5 (#24) |
| Purpose | Screen Time lets parents see how much time their child spends on devices and manage their device use. | SmartBreak monitors computer use and prompts users to take breaks to help prevent eye strain and mental stress. |
Plans
SmartBreak
- SmartBreak 1.x license upgrade$4.99, paid once
- SmartBreak 2 (Single user license)$14.99, paid once
In their own words
Apple Screen Time
Apple Screen Time is a free parental control feature for managing a child's device use on iOS and macOS. Parents can set Downtime to block apps and notifications at selected times, limit time on apps, websites, or categories, and choose app availability schedules for weekdays and weekends. Daily Time Allowances cover categories such as entertainment, games, and social media, with age-tailored guidance. Web controls let parents allow or block specific sites and apps, and Ask to Browse supports website approval requests. Parents can manage a child's contacts in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, including requiring approval for new contacts. Content settings include age ratings and controls over changes to location and Bluetooth sharing. Communication Safety blurs detected nudity in shared photos and videos in supported apps and offers children a way to get help. Managing a child's controls through a family group requires Family Sharing and an Apple Account for each member. Redesigned parental controls require version 27 or later across the family group; some controls are available on watchOS 27.
SmartBreak
SmartBreak has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.