---
title: "Best App Blockers for iPhone in 2026, Compared"
source: https://unlockr.space/compare/best-app-blockers-iphone
---

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.
TT
Full disclosure: I make Unlockr, so it's listed first, and I'm not neutral. The others are genuinely good apps, and each one below says who it suits best, including when that isn't Unlockr.
Tin, maker of Unlockr
## Unlockr
Earn time with a challenge
Squats, 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.
Get Unlockr →
## Opal
Schedules, limits, focus sessions
Blocks 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.
Unlockr vs Opal →
## one sec
A breathing pause
A 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.
Unlockr vs one sec →
## ScreenZen
Delays that grow
A 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.
Unlockr vs ScreenZen →
## Brick
A physical device
Tap 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.
Unlockr vs Brick →
## ClearSpace
A pause plus accountability
Decide 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.
App Store listing →
## Apple Screen Time
Built-in limits
Time 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.
Unlockr vs Apple Screen Time →
## 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