What Is a Focus App?
Focus apps are designed to help you stay on task and minimize distractions during study or work sessions. They use a variety of features—like task tracking, website blocking, and timed work sessions—to support deep, uninterrupted focus.
Most focus apps are available as downloads for your computer or phone, acting as digital to-do lists, timers, or productivity trackers. Others work as Chrome extensions, helping you stay disciplined while browsing by blocking distracting websites or silencing notifications.
Some even gamify the experience, offering brain-training exercises or rewards for completing tasks—turning concentration into a fun (and productive) challenge. Whether you’re looking to manage your time better or simply stop checking social media every five minutes, focus apps offer a customizable way to take control of your attention.
Why Focus Apps Matter
With so many demands pulling your attention—from work emails to family messages—it’s easy to fall into the trap of multitasking. You might be writing a report, replying to a coworker, and texting your partner about dinner all at once. But studies show that multitasking can actually cut your productivity by up to 40%. The real key to getting more done? Full, focused attention.
That’s where focus apps come in. These tools are designed to eliminate distractions and support deep, uninterrupted work. By helping you stay in the zone, they make it easier to concentrate, complete tasks efficiently, and reach that satisfying “flow” state.
The result? You get more done in less time—and free up space in your day for the things that matter most, whether that’s spending time with loved ones, relaxing, or simply taking a well-earned break.
17 Best Focus Apps to Help You Stay Productive and Beat Distractions
Let’s face it — staying focused these days isn’t easy. According to a 2023 survey, the average American checks their phone a whopping 144 times a day. Even more eye-opening? Three out of four people admit they reach for their phone within five minutes of getting a notification.
If you’re feeling constantly pulled in every direction, it’s not just you. But the good news? There are plenty of apps out there designed to help you cut through the noise and get stuff done. Whether you need to block distractions, build better habits, or manage tasks more efficiently, these 17 focus apps can help.
1. RescueTime
RescueTime is a powerful time-tracking app that gives you an honest look at how you spend your day. It analyzes your habits and pinpoints where your attention goes — whether that’s productive work or social media spirals.
Its “Focus Time” feature helps you zone in by blocking distractions when you need deep work. You can also set goals and use custom blocklists. It’s available on iOS and Android with a free trial, then $9/month or $78/year.
2. Cold Turkey Blocker
Need something a little more hardcore? Cold Turkey blocks websites, apps, or your entire computer if needed — perfect for when you really need to unplug.
You can create customized blocklists, schedule focus times, and use the ultra-strict “Frozen Turkey” mode. It’s available for Windows and iOS for a one-time purchase of $39.
3. LeechBlock
For those who spend most of their time in a browser, LeechBlock NG is a great (and free!) browser extension for Chrome and Firefox. It lets you block or limit time on up to 30 different websites, with flexible scheduling and settings.
4. Focus (iOS Only)
Focus combines the Pomodoro Technique with distraction-blocking. You can set 25-minute work intervals with short breaks, helping you manage energy levels while staying productive. It’s customizable and free for iOS users.
5. PawBlock
Need a friendly nudge instead of a strict blocker? PawBlock is a lighthearted browser extension that uses cute animal photos to discourage you from visiting blocked sites. If you try to cheat, you’ll be met with a sad face — but stay on track and you’ll get a happy one. Totally free and very charming.
6. SelfControl (Mac Only)
Mac users, meet your no-nonsense accountability buddy. SelfControl lets you block access to distracting websites for a set time, and once it’s locked in, there’s no turning back — not even restarting your computer will break it. It’s simple, effective, and free.
7. Freedom
Freedom takes distraction-blocking to the next level by syncing across all your devices — Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and even Chrome. Block sites or apps, schedule recurring focus sessions, and create custom blocklists. Plans start at just $3.50/month.
8. Forest
Forest makes focus fun. When you start a session, a tree begins to grow. Stay focused, and it grows into a lush part of your virtual forest. Leave the app early? Your tree dies. It’s a surprisingly motivating visual tool — and even better, Forest partners with Trees for the Future to plant real trees based on your activity. It’s $3.99 on iOS, or free on Chrome.
9. ClickUp
ClickUp isn’t a blocker per se, but it’s a productivity powerhouse for managing projects and teams. By centralizing your tasks, calendar, and communication, it keeps you from jumping between apps and losing your focus. Ideal for remote workers or multitaskers.
10. Focus Bear
Focus Bear goes beyond blocking distractions — it also promotes positive habits. The app helps you start your day with mindfulness, stretches, or journaling, then keeps you on task with guided focus sessions and scheduled breaks. After a 7-day free trial, it’s $4.99/month.
11. Serene (Mac Only)
Serene is a beautifully designed productivity app that’s all about structure. Start each day by setting your main goal, break it into sessions, and let Serene block distractions, play focus music, and remind you to take breaks. It’s free for up to 10 hours of use, then $4/month.
12. Taskade
Taskade blends task management with real-time collaboration. It doesn’t block sites, but its built-in countdown timers, project checklists, video chats, and AI tools help streamline your work. It has a generous free plan, with premium options for teams and added features.
13. Todoist
Todoist is one of the most popular to-do list apps out there, trusted by companies like Disney and Netflix. Its sleek interface, task prioritization, and multi-platform syncing make it great for staying organized — whether you’re working solo or as part of a team. There’s a free version, plus paid tiers with more features.
14. Noisli
If background noise helps you focus, Noisli is a dream. Choose from curated soundscapes like rain, forest, or café chatter, or create your own mix. It also includes a minimal text editor so you can work distraction-free. Plans range from free to $24/month for businesses.
15. Lumosity
Lumosity is more than just a brain game — it’s a workout for your focus. With science-backed games that target memory, attention, and problem-solving, you’ll gradually train your brain to resist distraction and stay sharp. Available in both free and premium versions.
16. OmniFocus
OmniFocus is a premium task management app tailored for professionals who need powerful organization tools. With robust features like customizable to-do lists, project hierarchies, and built-in focus modes, it’s ideal for managing complex workloads. It also integrates seamlessly with notification systems, allowing you to stay on track across your Apple devices.
Even though it’s primarily designed for macOS and iOS, you can access OmniFocus on Android and Windows through its web interface. It offers a monthly plan at $9.99 or a one-time purchase for lifetime access.
17. Focus To-Do
Focus To-Do merges the simplicity of the Pomodoro Technique with long-term task tracking. It helps you break work into focused intervals (with breaks in between) and then logs your habits to identify trends in your productivity.
You can create to-do lists, set reminders and deadlines, and manage subtasks—all from one platform. The app syncs seamlessly across mobile, desktop, and tablet, making it a practical choice for people on the go. It’s free to download, with optional in-app purchases for extra features.
Turning Focus Into a Habit
Let’s face it—staying focused in a world full of buzzes, pings, and push notifications is tough. But with the right tools, you can train your brain to resist distractions and build productive routines that last. Whether you need a minimalist timer, an advanced task manager, or a gamified app that makes focus feel fun, there’s something on this list to support your goals.
The true power of these focus apps is their ability to do the heavy lifting for you. You no longer need to micromanage your time or battle with distractions on your own. Pick the apps that suit your style, integrate them into your daily routine, and let them guide you into deeper focus.
Over time, you’ll find yourself:
- Working smarter, not harder
- Gaining back time in your day
- Creating habits that support long-term success
If you work with a coach or mentor, these apps can even provide data insights to guide your next steps. Focus isn’t just a skill—it’s a lifestyle, and it starts with the right tools.
Now’s the time to try one. Choose your favorite, commit for a week, and let it work its magic. Your productivity—and peace of mind—are worth it.