ScreenZen blocks selected apps and websites to help people reduce screen time. Users can set daily limits, create scheduled focus blocks, use apps mindfully, and track progress. Its lock mode helps protect against common ways around blocking and can prevent uninstalling. The core app is free on Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows, and does not require an account. The maker says core 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 sites when a device enters a chosen physical boundary. It supports unlimited phones and tablets running iOS 16.4+ or Android 12.0+, an adjustable radius up to 50 ft, and custom schedules. Halo costs 49.00 USD per once; an account is needed to manage the device and add users. The terms require users to be at least 13 and state that ScreenZen is not medical or mental-health advice.
Who it is for
ScreenZen suits people seeking app and website limits, scheduled focus time, or progress tracking across mobile and desktop platforms. Halo may suit users who want blocking tied to a physical boundary.
What is good
- Core app is free on four platforms.
- No account is needed for the core app.
- Supports daily limits and scheduled blocking.
- Lock mode can prevent uninstalling.
- Halo works with unlimited compatible phones and tablets.
What to know first
- Halo costs 49.00 USD per once.
- Halo requires an account to manage devices and users.
- Halo requires iOS 16.4+ or Android 12.0+.
- Terms require users to be at least 13.
Verdict
ScreenZen provides free app and website blocking with scheduling and limits. Halo adds Bluetooth-based boundary blocking at a one-time listed price.
ScreenZen plans and pricing
All plansCompared on screen time management apps
- Free plan
- Yes
- Block targets
- websites and apps
- Scheduled blocking
- Yes
- Recurring schedules
- Yes
- Locked sessions
- Yes
- Mobile apps
- ios and android
