Pick AppBlock if you need to block websites or keywords, or want blocking on a browser too. Pick Focus if you want a free session on Android that can't be cancelled, Phone-only mode, and a brain game instead of the feed when you reach for a blocked app.
We make Focus, so we've stuck to how each app works and left out prices, which change often. AppBlock is one of the longest-running blockers on Android, and it's strong on websites. Here's how the two compare.
Focus vs AppBlock at a glance
| Focus | AppBlock | |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | Android 7.0 and newer | Android, iPhone and browser extensions |
| What it blocks | Apps | Apps, websites and keywords |
| Strictest option | Strict session with no pause or cancel, free. Phone-only mode blocks everything except calls, camera and payments. | Strict mode that stops you changing your blocks while it's on |
| Automatic blocking | Focus schedules and block rules by time and day | Schedules by time, place, Wi-Fi or usage |
| When you open a blocked app | Block screen with a way home or straight into a brain game | Block screen |
| Motivation | XP, ranks, streaks, a progress dashboard and 12 brain-training games | Usage statistics |
| Price | Free with ads; optional Focus Pro removes ads and limits | Free plan plus a premium subscription |
The main differences
Websites, or just apps
AppBlock can block individual websites and keywords, and has browser extensions. Focus blocks apps only. If your distraction lives in a browser, that settles it.
How strict it gets
Both have a strict mode. In Focus, Strict is the default for every session and has no pause or cancel button. Phone-only mode goes further and blocks every app except the dialer, emergency calls, the camera and payment apps.
What you do instead
Focus puts a brain-training game on the block screen, and rewards sessions with XP, ranks and streaks. AppBlock keeps to blocking and statistics, which some people prefer.
Who should choose which
- Choose AppBlock for website and keyword blocking, or blocking across phone and browser.
- Choose Focus for a strict, free app block on Android, Phone-only mode, and a habit you can see grow.
Comparing more apps? See Focus vs other Android app blockers and Focus vs Opal.
Common questions
What is the difference between Focus and AppBlock?
AppBlock blocks apps, websites and keywords across Android, iPhone and browsers. Focus blocks apps on Android only, adds Phone-only mode, and offers a brain-training game on the block screen, with XP and streaks to keep you going.
Can Focus block websites like AppBlock?
No. Focus blocks apps, including browsers if you choose, but not single websites. If you need to block particular sites, AppBlock is the better fit.
Which is better for studying, Focus or AppBlock?
Both can block distracting apps on a schedule. Focus suits students who want a free session that can't be cancelled, Phone-only mode for mock tests, and streaks to build the habit. AppBlock suits students who study on a laptop and need websites blocked too.