Side by side
FocalFilter vs FocusMe
Both stand on distraction blocking software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Windows
FocalFilter offers a simple way to put a timed barrier between you and selected websites. Keep it installed until active blocks end, and be prepared to restart the browser if blocks do not change as expected.
Visit FocalFilter
Free plan AndroidExtensioniPhone+3
Choose FocusMe if you want to combine website and app blocking with scheduled sessions, time budgets, and tools that make plans harder to bypass. Look elsewhere if you need Android plan sync now or need a license for more than five desktop computers and two mobile devices.
Visit FocusMeThe facts
| FocalFilter | FocusMe | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Android, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Lifetime: $249, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | focalfilter.com | focusme.com |
| On distraction blocking software | #11 of 29 | #7 of 29 |
FocalFilter: what it does well
- Free plan blocks chosen websites by timer
- Works with Windows browsers including Chrome and Firefox
- Saves the blocked-site list for future runs
What to know first
- Uninstalling during a block leaves sites blocked
- Security software may stop it from running
- Windows XP requires administrator access
FocusMe: what it does well
- Blocks websites, apps, keywords, and categories across 15+ browsers.
- Plans can set budgets, launch limits, breaks, and schedules.
- Whitelist Mode allows only selected items.
- AI Coach provides progress insights and actions.
- Free mobile apps include blocking, schedules, and time limits.
What to know first
- Android plan sync is still in development.
- Lifetime costs $249, paid once.
- A license is limited to five desktop computers and two mobile devices.
Alternatives to FocalFilter Alternatives to FocusMe The whole list