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SelfControl vs Stay Focused

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

SelfControl icon
SelfControl
Stay Focused icon
Stay Focused

SelfControl vs Stay Focused: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature SelfControl Stay Focused
Sugggest Score — —
Category Productivity Productivity
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

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

Stay Focused
Stay Focused

Description: Stay Focused is a productivity chrome extension that allows users to limit the time they spend on time-wasting websites. It blocks distracting websites after a preset time limit to help people stay focused and productive.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

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
Stay Focused
Stay Focused Features
  • Set time limits for distracting websites
  • Completely block websites for set periods of time
  • Set a schedule for when websites should be blocked
  • Blacklist websites that should always be blocked
  • Whitelist websites that should never be blocked
  • Get productivity reports showing time spent on websites

Pros & Cons Analysis

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
Stay Focused
Stay Focused
Pros
  • Helps increase focus and productivity
  • Lets you control internet usage and avoid distractions
  • Easy to set time limits and schedules
  • Detailed productivity reports
  • Works across all browsers and devices
Cons
  • Can be circumvented by uninstalling extension
  • Requires some discipline to avoid overriding settings
  • May block useful websites if not configured properly
  • No mobile app, only browser extension

Pricing Comparison

SelfControl
SelfControl
  • Open Source
Stay Focused
Stay Focused
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

SelfControl
SelfControl
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Stay Focused
Stay Focused
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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