Best app to block apps

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That’s why choosing the best app to block apps is so important. The right one becomes a bridge — helping parents build healthy digital habits for their kids and replacing constant arguments with calm, consistent guidance.

In this guide, we’ll show you which tools make it easy for parents to set smart screen-time limits, filter out unsafe or distracting content, and teach their kids to use technology wisely.

Kidsee

Platforms: Android, iOS

Kidsee empowers parents to take control of their child's screen time and ensure a safe, balanced digital experience. Manage and block apps to help children stay focused, sleep better, and use devices responsibly. Restrict entertainment apps during study hours to keep distractions away when it's time to concentrate. Turn screen time into a positive incentive by letting kids earn phone time through tasks, routines, and healthy behavior.

Key Features

• Multi Device Screen Time Tracking.Monitor exactly how much time every day each child spends on games, social media. The tracking system records every minute in real-time, showing patterns you might miss.
• Customizable Access Control. Choose exactly which programs to control and when, using adjustable restriction schedules that match your family's routine.
• Task-Based Screen Time Rewards. Create assignments and chores that children complete to earn extra phone time. Define tasks finish homework, practice piano 30 minutes, clean the kitchen and attach screen time rewards. When kids complete tasks, they submit proof.
• Real-Time Location Tracking. See where your child is through background GPS tracking that updates in real-time. The map view shows current position within meters.
• Detailed Usage Statistics. Review comprehensive data showing which apps your child opens, when they use them, and session length. Statistics reveal patterns helping you identify behaviors before they become habits.
• Device Synchronization Connect all children's devices phones, tablets, shared family devices to your parent phone. When you adjust limits or turn off apps, changes sync instantly across all connected devices.

Monthly $3,99/month

Annual $44,99/year

‍Download on the App Store

GET IT ON Google Play‍

AppBlock

Platforms: Android, iOS

AppBlock helps users temporarily restrict distracting applications on mobile phones to focus on studies or work. The blocker activates at exact times and dates, automatically enforcing focus during work hours and turning off after specified periods.

Key Features

• Temporary Access Restriction. Limit access to any software temporarily when you need to concentrate. The blocker activates at exact times you choose, then automatically turns off when your focus session ends. Set it once and AppBlock handles enforcement without ongoing attention.
• Profile-Based Restrictions. Create profiles with rules for specific app groups. Set up a "work" profile that restricts entertainment apps, a "study" profile that limits everything except educational tools, and a "sleep time" profile that shuts down all distracting content. Switch between profiles throughout the day or schedule them to automatically enforce focus.
• Time Limits for Apps and Websites. Set time limits for Android applications, URLs, social networks, and internet access. Once you hit your daily limit on TikTok or Instagram, AppBlock restricts further access until the next day. This prevents mindless scrolling by capping how long you can use time-wasting platforms.
• PIN Code Protection. Protect AppBlock settings with a PIN code to prevent impulsive changes during moments of weakness. Once you set restriction rules and lock them with a PIN, you can't easily disable them when temptation strikes. Your rational planning beats emotional impulses.
• Message Control. Mute messages from specific applications to avoid unwanted communication during focus time. Starting from Android version 4.3, combine message restrictions with full application control for complete distraction elimination.
• Profile Lock Feature. Lock profiles so they only unlock when you connect your phone to a charger. This creative restriction prevents impulsive rule changes. If you need to plug in your phone to unlock distractions, you face a physical barrier that gives you time to reconsider whether you really need access.

Price: from $29.99/year (with annual subscription) or $4.99/month

Website: www.appblock.app

Freedom

Platforms:iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Chrome (browser extension)

Freedom is a cross-platform app blocker that helps over 1 million users worldwide restrict distractions across all their devices simultaneously. Control your screen time with scheduled limitation sessions that work across desktop and mobile devices.

Key Features

• Cross-Platform Access Management. Freedom works across all your devices at once. Start a restriction session on your computer, and it automatically activates on your phone and tablet too. You can't cheat by switching devices when you hit a restricted site. The system syncs automatically across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Chrome.
• Customizable Blocklists. Create custom lists of distracting websites and applications you want to restrict during focus sessions.Build multiple blocklists for different scenarios—one for deep work, another for studying, a third for sleep time.
• Scheduled Sessions. Set restriction sessions to start automatically at specific times. Schedule Freedom to limit distractions every weekday from 9 AM to noon for focused morning work. Or disable entertainment programs after 10 PM to improve sleep habits. Recurring schedules eliminate manual activation the software handles it automatically.
• Locked Mode Activate Locked Mode to prevent yourself from disabling a restriction session once it starts. This stops impulsive decisions to "just check Instagram real quick." Once locked, you can't bypass the restriction until the timer runs out.
• Session History and Analytics Review how many hours you've spent in focused work sessions over time. The analytics show your most productive days and help you identify patterns in your focus habits. Track whether your productivity improves when you restrict certain sites.

Price: $8.99/month, $3.99/month (annual), $39.99/year.

Website: www.freedom.to

Stay Focused

Platforms: iOS, Android

Stay Focused is an app for blocking distractions that helps you manage screen time and eliminate distractions through access control and self-discipline features. The software allows you to restrict distracting applications during work or study sessions using customizable blocking schedules, helping you reclaim your freedom from phone addiction. Designed for anyone seeking better focus and productivity, Stay Focused functions as your digital self-control assistant.

Key Features

• Access Control. Restrict access to distracting programs during designated focus periods. Choose which applications to limit social media, games, or entertainment platforms and set time windows for when they stay restricted.The system prevents you from opening these apps until your focus session ends.
• Screen Time Management. Track how much time you spend on each app throughout the day. The usage statistics reveal which apps consume most of your attention, helping you identify problem areas. Use this data to set realistic limits and gradually reduce time spent on unproductive activities, giving you better control of your screen time.
• Self-Control Mode. Activate strict restrictions that you can't easily override. This feature prevents impulsive decisions to turn off your limits mid-session.. Once you commit to a focus period, the app enforces your boundaries even when willpower weakens.
• Customizable Schedules. Set recurring restriction schedules that match your daily routine. Limit entertainment applications during work hours but allow access during lunch breaks and evenings. This creates an optimal study environment for better focus and concentration. The automated scheduling removes the need to manually start focus sessions every day.
• Usage Reports. Review detailed reports showing your progress over time. See how many hours you've stayed focused, which days proved most productive, and how your app usage patterns change. These insights help you refine your approach and maintain long-term behavior change.

Price: from 3$/month

Website: stayfocused.me

FocusMe

Platforms:Android

FocusMe helps you break bad phone habits by tracking application usage and restricting distracting websites. This must-have screen time management tool shows exactly how much time you spend on each program and how many times you launch them daily. Set time limits, schedule restriction periods, and regain control of your digital life through customizable usage rules.

Key Features

• Flexible Restriction Options. FocusMe gives you multiple ways to control application access. Completely turn off programs, limit daily or hourly usage, restrict how many times you launch an application per day, set maximum use time per launch, or require breaks between launches.This flexibility lets you easily limit social media entirely during work hours or allow limited access with strict boundaries.
• Website Control Across Major Browsers. The tool works with all major Android browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Samsung Internet, Opera, Brave, and Microsoft Edge. Limit distracting websites across whichever browser you use. The developer built accessibility features that track browsing activity locally on your device no data leaves your phone.
• Usage Statistics and Tracking. See detailed reports showing how much time you spend on each app and how frequently you open them. These statistics reveal patterns you might not notice otherwise.
• Timed Rules. Create patterns that activate restriction rules automatically at specific times. Set FocusMe to limit entertainment applications during work hours, but allow access in the evenings. The automation runs automatically without requiring daily manual activation.
• Privacy-Focused Design. FocusMe tracks your activity entirely on your device. The app doesn't collect personal data or send your browsing history anywhere. All usage statistics and restriction rules stay local, giving you control and privacy while managing screen time.

Price: from $12.95/month

Website: www.focusme.com

Lock Me Out

Platforms:Android

Lock Me Out disconnects you from your phone through powerful restriction features that help thousands of students and professionals focus on what matters and maintain a healthy digital lifestyle. Released in 2014, the software offers automatic shutdowns based on usage patterns, timed lockouts, location-based controls, and website limitations. No ads distract from your focus time.

Key Features

• Multiple Restriction Modes. Lock Me Out offers three control modes to match your needs. Application restriction mode lets you select specific programs to limit during focus sessions. Application allowlist mode works opposite you choose which software stays accessible while everything else shuts down. The strictest option is lock screen only mode, which restricts everything except emergency calls.
• Recurring Lockouts. Create repeating lockouts that activate automatically at specified times. Set different rules for each day maybe restrict entertainment applications weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM but leave weekends unrestricted. Choose start time, end time, specific days, and control mode.
• Location-Based Blocking. Trigger lockouts automatically when you enter specific locations. Set your school, gym, or workplace as blocking zones where distracting apps shut down automatically. The moment you arrive at these locations, Lock Me Out activates without manual intervention.
• Website Filtering and Do Not Disturb. Restrict specific websites without shutting down your entire browser. Activate Do Not Disturb or silent mode automatically during lockouts. This stops notifications from interrupting your focus time, creating an environment free from both program access and notification distractions.
• Password Protection and Emergency Access. Password protect your settings to prevent impulsive modifications. You can't deactivate lockouts early, delete restriction rules, or adjust settings during active sessions. Need your phone urgently? Temporary emergency access lets you override restrictions when genuine emergencies arise.
• Usage Statistics. Review detailed statistics showing screen time, time spent with Do Not Disturb active, and hours logged during lockouts. Weekly and monthly trends help you spot patterns and adjust your approach.

Price: premium from 2,4$/month

Website: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teqtic.lockmeout

BlockSite

Platforms: Android, iOS, Chrome (browser extension)

BlockSite is a productivity and time management tool used by over 5 million people worldwide. The software allows you to block websites, programs, and content to avoid distractions, control screen time, and maintain focus. BlockSite offers customizable limitation lists, timing controls, focus timers, strict mode for enforced restrictions, and keyword-based filtering to help students, freelancers, and remote workers build healthier digital habits.

Key Features

• Access Control and Custom Lists. Add up to 5 distracting programs to your restriction lists in the free version. Limit social media, games, and entertainment applications that interrupt your productivity. The restrictions activate instantly with one click. Create separate lists for different scenarios one for work hours, another for night time, a third for study sessions.
• Schedule Mode. Set daily routines with flexible scheduling that activates restrictions automatically. Decide when programs and websites stay accessible and when it's time to work or relax. For example, limit social media weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM but leave evenings and weekends open
• Focus Mode with Pomodoro Timer. Use the built-in Pomodoro-style focus timer to break work into timed sessions with short breaks between them. This helps you maintain maximum concentration through structured work intervals.
• App Usage Time Limits and Keyword Blocking. Set limits on how long you can use specific applications daily. Once you hit the limit, BlockSite blocks access for the rest of the day. Block websites by specific keywords in their URLs for instance, blocking "face" prevents access to any site with "face" in its address, including Facebook.
• Device Synchronization and Usage Statistics Sync your blocking settings across all devicesmphone, tablet, computer. Set up blocks once and they activate everywhere automatically. Track exactly how much time you spend on websites and applications. The analytics reveal your actual usage patterns, helping you make informed decisions about which applications deserve stricter limits.

Price: from $38.99/month (with annual subscription) or $3.99/month

Website: www.blocksite.co

Kidslox

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Web browser

Kidslox is a parental control application that helps families manage screen time, block applications, track location, and monitor digital activities across up to 10 devices. Parents control children's phone usage remotely through instant restrictions, timed access periods, daily limits, and content filtering. The app works across mobile and desktop platforms with no ads.

Key Features

• Remote Blocking and Device Usage Timing. Block applications on your child's phone instantly from your parent device. Whether they're on Android or iPhone, shut down distracting applications live from anywhere. Set fixed times when your child can use their smartphone. Create curfews that automatically turn off phones in the evening.Set maximum daily usage limits that trigger automatic screen locks when time expires.
• Usage Time Rewards. Grant extra phone time when kids complete chores, finish homework, or accomplish other tasks. This reward system turns device time into positive motivation rather than constant negotiation. For example, 30 minutes of reading might earn 30 minutes of gaming time.
• Activity Tracking and User Modes.Monitor which applications your child uses, how long they spend on each one, which websites they visit, and total screen time. Create different blocking profiles for various situations set up a homework mode that allows educational apps or a bedtime mode that shuts down everything except emergency calls.
• GPS Location Tracking and Geofencing. Track your child's current location through GPS monitoring.See where they are on a map when they're out with friends or walking home from school. Set up geographic boundaries around important locations like school, home, or practice fields. Receive instant notifications when your child enters or exits these zones. Review location history to verify they went where they claimed.
• Content Filtering and Safety Features Filter pornography and other adult content automatically across browsers and apps. Prevent unauthorized in-app purchases that can rack up unexpected charges. Force secure search mode on Google and other search engines to filter explicit content. Activate complete internet blocking during homework time or family dinners when you want phones completely offline.
• Multi-Platform Control Manage all your children's devices from one parent account. Kidslox works across Android phones, iPhones, iPads, Windows computers, and Mac laptops. One subscription controls up to 10 devices, covering the entire family's technology ecosystem. Access controls through the mobile app or web browser. The app contains no advertisements.

Price: from $49,99/month (with annual subscription)

Website: www.kidslox.com

Qustodio

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Kindle

Qustodio is a PC Mag Editors' Choice parental control solution that simplifies family device management through device time limits, GPS tracking, and AI-powered monitoring. The software helps parents block websites and apps, filter inappropriate content, and excel at blocking distracting apps. Track location and messaging for suspicious activity across all major platforms.

Key Features

• Automatic Screen Time Limits. Set daily screen time allowances that automatically lock devices when time expires. The timer tracks usage across all content games, apps, websites and shuts down access once kids hit their limit. The system handles enforcement automatically.
• AI-Powered Monitoring. Receive instant notifications when AI detects suspicious browsing activity or harmful content in SMS messages and social media. Monitor activity on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Line to spot concerning behavior early. Track YouTube viewing history and supervise incoming and outgoing calls and text messages. Block unwanted contacts and receive alerts about suspicious messaging patterns.
• GPS Tracking and Geolocation. Track your child's current location through GPS monitoring.See exactly where they are on a map at school, practice, or a friend's house. Save favorite places like school, home, or grandparents' house. Track kids on the move as they travel between locations. Family members can share locations with each other. Find lost phones quickly using the location tracking system.
• Content Filtering and App Blocking Automatically block inappropriate websites including pornography, gambling, and violent content. The filtering works across all browsers and apps. Use app block features to restrict access to distracting or inappropriate games and applications. Pause internet instantly across all your child's devices during family dinners, homework time, or bedtime. One tap disconnects everything.
• Custom Routines and Activity Reports. Create different rules for specific applications and websites based on time of day. Set weekday patterns that differ from weekend timing. Access 30-day online activity reports showing everything your child does on their devices. Daily and weekly summary reports arrive straight to your email inbox. Get notified immediately when your child downloads new apps.
• Multi-Device Management and Safety Control all family devices from one parent app or web dashboard. Qustodio works across iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Kindle devices. Invite another parent or guardian to monitor and set rules for your children through the co-parenting feature. Install an emergency panic button on your child's device that sends instant alerts when pressed.

Price: from $4.58/month

Website: www.qustodio.com

Parental Control

Platforms: Android, iOS

Parental Control Kroha protects children through comprehensive monitoring and control features. The app tracks location, limits screen time, includes a powerful website blocker, blocks apps and games, monitors social media chats, and includes unique eye protection features. Parents manage up to 5 family devices remotely from one account with automated restrictions for family time, bedtime, and study periods.

Key Features

• Remote Access Control and Timing. Restrict programs, games, and social media applications remotely without physical access to your child's device. Limit application usage time while your child is at school or a friend's house. Create automated patterns that limit phone usage during family time, bedtime, and study time.
• Screen Time Management and Tracking. View detailed reports showing daily phone usage patterns. The screen time app displays exactly how your child spends time on their device which apps they open, how long sessions last, and when usage peaks.
• Social Media and Website Monitoring. The app tracks what your child sends and receives, alerting you to potential issues like cyberbullying or inappropriate contact. Monitor which websites your child visits. Web filters block harmful sites and inappropriate content automatically. Review YouTube videos your child watches and block specific videos or entire channels.
• Eyes Protection and Night Mode. Activate Night Mode to protect your child's eyes from intense blue light during evening hours while helping block distractions before bed. This feature reduces eye strain when kids use phones before bed, promoting better sleep quality.
• GPS Tracking and Geofencing. Monitor your child's location on a map instantly through continuous GPS tracking.See exactly where they are at school, practice, or a friend's house without calling or texting to ask. Set geo-zones around important locations like home, school, or the library. Receive notifications when your child leaves these designated zones.

Price: $4.99/month, $17.99/year, or $39.99 lifetime (all plans cover 5 devices)

Website: www.parental-control.net

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