Side by side
Normal vs SelfLock
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 Android
SelfLock offers local, password-protected blocking for apps and selected browser websites without cloud accounts. Its source-build installation, permission requirements, browser-dependent detection, and stated enforcement limits are important before adoption.
Visit SelfLockThe facts
| Normal | SelfLock | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone | Android |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Not published |
| Plans published | 1 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | normalengineering.org | github.com |
| On distraction blocking software | #22 of 29 | #26 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.
SelfLock: what it does well
- Free and open-source under MIT
- Scheduled and daily-limit blocking
- Locked rules with optional passwords
- Local usage statistics and warnings
- No login, telemetry, or cloud sync
What to know first
- Requires Android 14 or newer
- Installation requires building from source
- Website blocking depends on browser URL identifiers
- Cannot fully prevent Safe Mode, ADB, or factory reset removal
Alternatives to Normal Alternatives to SelfLock The whole list