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HackMD vs StayFocused

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

HackMD icon
HackMD
StayFocused icon
StayFocused

HackMD vs StayFocused: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

HackMD: HackMD is a real-time collaborative markdown editor and note-taking web application. It allows teams to write, edit, review and publish markdown documents together in real-time. Features include GitHub/GitLab integration, code blocks, task lists, and drawing.

StayFocused: StayFocused is a productivity web browser extension for Google Chrome that allows users to limit the amount of time they spend on time-wasting websites. It enables users to set time limits for specific sites to help avoid distractions.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature HackMD StayFocused
Sugggest Score
Category Remote Work & Education Productivity
Pricing Open Source Freemium

Product Overview

HackMD
HackMD

Description: HackMD is a real-time collaborative markdown editor and note-taking web application. It allows teams to write, edit, review and publish markdown documents together in real-time. Features include GitHub/GitLab integration, code blocks, task lists, and drawing.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

StayFocused
StayFocused

Description: StayFocused is a productivity web browser extension for Google Chrome that allows users to limit the amount of time they spend on time-wasting websites. It enables users to set time limits for specific sites to help avoid distractions.

Type: software

Pricing: Freemium

Key Features Comparison

HackMD
HackMD Features
  • Real-time collaborative editing
  • Markdown support
  • Code block support
  • GitHub/GitLab integration
  • Task lists
  • Drawing support
StayFocused
StayFocused Features
  • Set time limits for websites
  • Block websites during set periods
  • Get productivity insights and stats
  • Focus mode to block distracting sites
  • Nuclear option to block all sites
  • Customizable blacklist and whitelist

Pros & Cons Analysis

HackMD
HackMD

Pros

  • Free for individuals
  • Great for collaboration
  • Integrates with GitHub/GitLab
  • Supports markdown formatting
  • Has useful features like code blocks and drawings

Cons

  • Formatting can get messed up with multiple simultaneous editors
  • No WYSIWYG editor
  • Limited free plan storage
StayFocused
StayFocused

Pros

  • Simple and easy to use
  • Helps improve productivity and focus
  • Powerful time limiting and blocking options
  • Insights into browsing habits
  • Open source and free

Cons

  • Only available as Chrome extension
  • Time limits can be bypassed
  • Requires some discipline from user
  • No mobile app
  • Can block useful sites if not configured properly

Pricing Comparison

HackMD
HackMD
  • Open Source
StayFocused
StayFocused
  • Freemium

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