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Pi-hole vs StayFocusd

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

Pi-hole icon
Pi-hole
StayFocusd icon
StayFocusd

Pi-hole vs StayFocusd: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Pi-hole: Pi-hole is an open source DNS sinkhole and ad blocker that works at the network level. It allows users to block ads and trackers on all devices on their home network by redirecting traffic from ad-serving domains to a black hole.

StayFocusd: StayFocusd is a free Chrome extension that helps users stay focused and avoid distractions when working on the computer. It allows blocking or limiting time on sites that tend to be distracting.

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 Pi-hole StayFocusd
Sugggest Score — —
Category Network & Admin Productivity
Pricing Open Source Free

Product Overview

Pi-hole
Pi-hole

Description: Pi-hole is an open source DNS sinkhole and ad blocker that works at the network level. It allows users to block ads and trackers on all devices on their home network by redirecting traffic from ad-serving domains to a black hole.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

StayFocusd
StayFocusd

Description: StayFocusd is a free Chrome extension that helps users stay focused and avoid distractions when working on the computer. It allows blocking or limiting time on sites that tend to be distracting.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

Pi-hole
Pi-hole Features
  • Network-wide ad blocking
  • Blocks ads for all devices on your network
  • Lightweight and designed to run on a Raspberry Pi
  • Uses DNS filtering to block unwanted domains
  • Can block ads in non-browser applications
  • Provides a local DNS server for your network
  • Web interface for managing blocklists and whitelists
  • Can view stats on ads and queries blocked
  • Open source software
StayFocusd
StayFocusd Features
  • Website blocking
  • Time limits
  • Nuclear option
  • Focus mode
  • Statistics and productivity reports

Pros & Cons Analysis

Pi-hole
Pi-hole

Pros

  • Blocks ads without needing client software
  • Easy to set up and configure
  • Low resource usage
  • Can improve page load speeds
  • Blocks ads on all devices and applications
  • Constantly updated blocklists
  • Active open source community

Cons

  • Requires a dedicated device to run on
  • Can break some web sites
  • Requires technical knowledge to configure
  • Does not work when away from home network
  • Does not block all ads and trackers
StayFocusd
StayFocusd

Pros

  • Free
  • Easy to use
  • Customizable blocking
  • Focus mode is helpful
  • Can set time limits for sites

Cons

  • Only available as Chrome extension
  • Can be bypassed if not self-disciplined
  • Might block useful sites if not configured properly

Pricing Comparison

Pi-hole
Pi-hole
  • Open Source
StayFocusd
StayFocusd
  • Free

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Learn More About Each Product

Pi-hole
Pi-hole
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StayFocusd
StayFocusd
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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