Side by side
Net Nanny vs Safe Surfer
Both stand on parental control apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Paid iPhoneMacWeb+1
Net Nanny combines filtering, time management, app blocking, reporting, and location tools. Families must choose a paid annual plan and use supported Windows, macOS, or iOS devices.
Visit Net Nanny
Free trial AndroidExtensioniPhone+3
Safe Surfer combines category filtering, monitoring, scheduling, and alerts across household devices and networks.
Visit Safe SurferThe facts
| Net Nanny | Safe Surfer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | A free trial |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, Extension, iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | 1 Desktop: $39.99 a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 3 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Safe Surfer |
| Website | netnanny.com | safesurfer.io |
| On parental control apps | #70 of 107 | #66 of 107 |
Net Nanny: what it does well
- Filters content across 14 categories
- Sets internet limits and schedules
- Blocks selected apps
- Includes activity and YouTube reports
- Offers real-time mobile-device location
What to know first
- No free plan
- Android, Kindle Fire, and Chromebook unsupported
- Reports are not emailed automatically
- Listed device limit is one
Safe Surfer: what it does well
- Blocks more than 50 content categories
- Per-device schedules and screen-time allowances
- Custom block and allow lists
- Activity reports and email summaries
- Supports major desktop and mobile platforms
What to know first
- There is no free plan
- Pro Surfer covers five devices
- Content blackout is Android-only
- Router controls vary by router type
Alternatives to Net Nanny Alternatives to Safe Surfer The whole list