Side by side
Normal vs Pluckeye
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 iPhone
Choose Normal if you want free, open-source iOS app blocking with custom groups, schedules, and NFC or QR keys. Look elsewhere if you need a platform other than iPhone or iPad, or an iOS version earlier than 18.0.
Visit Normal
Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+1
Pluckeye offers detailed blocking, scheduling, and accountability tools at no cost. Its setup demands time, and its delayed changes and removal are important constraints to consider.
Visit PluckeyeThe facts
| Normal | Pluckeye | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Sliding scale subscription: $7.50 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | normalengineering.org | pluckeye.net |
| On distraction blocking software | #22 of 29 | #18 of 29 |
Normal: what it does well
- Free forever, with no subscriptions or paywalls.
- Create unlimited custom app groups.
- Schedule blocking on selected days and custom times.
- Timed unlocks automatically reblock apps or groups.
- The maker says settings and keys stay on the iPhone.
What to know first
- Requires iOS 18.0 or later.
- Listed for iOS devices rather than desktop platforms.
- The App Store lists optional support and donation purchases.
Pluckeye: what it does well
- Free plan includes all features.
- Schedules sites and whole-internet blocking periods.
- Accountability partners can view allowed sites.
- Supports Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows.
What to know first
- Setup takes time and has a steep learning curve.
- Changes and uninstalling are delayed.
- iOS, Chrome OS, and Windows Mobile are unsupported.
- Free individual technical support is not guaranteed.
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