Unlockr
Compared · Checked November 2026
The best app blockers
for iPhone, compared.
Every app blocker on iPhone uses Apple's Screen Time framework underneath. What differs is what happens when you try to open a blocked app: a wait, a breath, a hard wall, a physical tap, or a bit of effort. Pick the friction that fits you.
-
Unlockr
Earn time with a challengeSquats, push-ups or a plank counted on device, or a Math or Memory round, earns minutes that only count while you use the app.
- Price
- Free for 1 app · $34.99/yr
- Best if
- You want getting back in to cost real effort.
-
Opal
Schedules, limits, focus sessionsBlocks apps and websites on a schedule or limit. Deep Focus can't be cancelled. Scores and leaderboards.
- Price
- Free for 1 rule · $99.99/yr
- Best if
- You want strict blocking on iPhone, Android and Mac.
-
one sec
A breathing pauseA short pause before chosen apps, then continue or back out. Studied in a PNAS field experiment.
- Price
- Free for 1 app · Pro in app
- Best if
- You want the lightest, best-studied nudge.
-
ScreenZen
Delays that growA wait before opening that can grow each time, scrolling interruptions, limits, strict blocks and settings locks.
- Price
- Free · optional tips
- Best if
- You want a free, very configurable tool.
-
Brick
A physical deviceTap your phone on the Brick to block apps, and tap again to unblock.
- Price
- $59 device
- Best if
- You want a barrier that isn't on your phone.
-
ClearSpace
A pause plus accountabilityDecide after a deep breath whether to open an app, with limits, schedules, challenges and accountability partners.
- Price
- See the App Store
- Best if
- You want a friend to keep you honest.
-
Apple Screen Time
Built-in limitsTime Allowances and detailed reports. A limit can be ignored with one tap unless someone else holds the passcode.
- Price
- Free, built in
- Best if
- You manage a child's phone or only want reports.
How to choose
Start with the moment you want to change. If you open apps without thinking, a pause (one sec, ClearSpace) or a delay (ScreenZen) may be enough. If you notice but open anyway, you need something with more weight: a hard block (Opal), a device you have to walk to (Brick), or a challenge you have to finish (Unlockr).
Whatever you choose, check your daily total in Screen Time after a week or two. A blocker that only moves your scrolling to another hour hasn't changed much. Our guide on reducing screen time on iPhone covers what research says works.
Ready to earn your screen time?
Start free with one protected app. It takes a minute to set up.
Download on theApp Store