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SelfControl vs StayFocusd

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

SelfControl icon
SelfControl
StayFocusd icon
StayFocusd

SelfControl vs StayFocusd: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature SelfControl StayFocusd
Sugggest Score — —
Category Productivity Productivity
Pricing Open Source Free

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

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

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
StayFocusd
StayFocusd Features
  • Website blocking
  • Time limits
  • Nuclear option
  • Focus mode
  • Statistics and productivity reports

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
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

SelfControl
SelfControl
  • Open Source
StayFocusd
StayFocusd
  • Free

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

SelfControl
SelfControl
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
StayFocusd
StayFocusd
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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