ScreenZen app icon

ScreenZen

Adds a pause before you open your most distracting apps

MaciPhoneiPad4.953K ratingsFree

The verdict

Every feature in ScreenZen is free, while one sec and Opal limit their free tiers to 1 app or 1 rule. It makes you wait a few seconds before a distracting app opens, caps how many times a day you can open it, and locks your settings so you cannot quietly switch it off. It runs on optional tips, and Freedom is the pick if you want 1 block running on your phone and computer at the same time.

The Useful TechResearched and written with AI under our rulesUpdated 14 Oct 2026

Get it if

You open Instagram on autopilot and want a short pause before it loads, not a total ban.

Skip it if

You want 1 block running on your phone and computer at the same time, which is where Freedom comes in.

Screenshots 4

What it helps you do

  • Pause before opening apps you overuse
  • Cap Instagram at a few opens a day
  • Block social apps during work hours
  • See screen time for only distracting apps

Plans and prices

  • Free

    Every feature, including open delays, open limits, app goals, schedules, strict blocks and settings locks

  • Tips

    $5

    Optional tips from $5 to $40 in the App Store

What changed

  1. Version 4.0.0

    Practice: swap a bad habit for a good one. Breathe, journal or learn something, and earn your opens. · Minimal: use Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Reddit and more without Reels, Shorts or endless feeds, with messages-only options. · Lock settings: choose a time your settings unlock, and add an accountability partner who can let you back in. · Daily goal: set a screen time budget for your whole day, then open any day to…

  2. Added to The Useful Apps

Pick something else if

All 8 ScreenZen alternatives

ScreenZen head to head

The details

Runs on
Mac, iPhone, iPad
Requires
iOS 16.4 or later
Version
4.0.0
Size
167 MB
Made by
ScreenZen LLC
Rating
4.9 from 53K ratings on the App Store

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