Skip to content

Fences vs SelfControl

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Fences icon
Fences
SelfControl icon
SelfControl

Fences vs SelfControl: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Fences SelfControl
Sugggest Score — —
Category File Management Productivity
Pricing — Open Source

Product Overview

Fences
Fences

Description: Fences is a desktop organization software that allows users to organize their computer desktop icons and shortcuts into shaded areas called 'fences'. It helps reduce desktop clutter and make icons easier to find.

Type: software

SelfControl
SelfControl

Description: SelfControl is a free Mac app that helps you avoid distracting websites by blocking access to them for a set period of time. It can help you stay focused and productive when you need to get work done.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

Fences
Fences Features
  • Automatic desktop icon organization
  • Customizable fences/areas to group icons
  • Hide/unhide fences with double click
  • Options for icon spacing, color, transparency
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Support for multiple monitors
  • Cloud sync
  • Dark mode
SelfControl
SelfControl Features
  • Block access to distracting websites
  • Set time periods for blocking (from 5 minutes to 1 day)
  • Customizable blacklists and whitelists
  • Block application usage
  • Schedule website blocking in advance

Pros & Cons Analysis

Fences
Fences
Pros
  • Makes desktop organization easy
  • Reduces clutter
  • Customizable fences/areas
  • Keyboard shortcuts for efficiency
  • Works well with multiple monitors
  • Cloud sync keeps fences consistent across devices
Cons
  • Occasional minor bugs reported
  • Premium version expensive for personal use
  • Limited customization in free version
SelfControl
SelfControl
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Simple and easy to use
  • Effective at blocking distractions
  • Available for Mac only
Cons
  • Lacks advanced configuration options
  • Easy to uninstall or work around blocks
  • Mac only, no Windows or mobile support

Pricing Comparison

Fences
Fences
  • Not listed
SelfControl
SelfControl
  • Open Source

Related Comparisons

iTop Easy Desktop
vs Fences vs SelfControl
ICU - Icon Configuration Utility
vs Fences vs SelfControl

Learn More About Each Product

Fences
Fences
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
SelfControl
SelfControl
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

Fences Alternatives
SelfControl Alternatives
Browse More Software