Opal review
Screen time blocking with focus sessions and reports
- Opal
- Free + paid plans
- iPhone & iPad, Android, Mac
Does it deserve #8?
The verdict
Opal is the most polished screen time blocker for iPhone, and it now runs on Android and Mac too. On iPhone it uses Apple's Screen Time framework to block apps and websites on a schedule or during focus sessions, with a stricter mode that is hard to cancel. Clear reports show where your hours go. The free plan is basic, the strongest features need Pro, and upgrade prompts are persistent. Blocks can occasionally glitch when iOS misbehaves.
- Scheduled app blocking
- Strict focus sessions
- Screen time reports
- App and website blocking
Score breakdown
Overall = features 30% · design 20% · speed 20% · value 15% · privacy 15%. Why these weights?
What we like
- Polished design that makes blocking feel rewarding
- Strict sessions resist late-night willpower lapses
- Clear reports on where your time goes
What could be better
- Best features locked behind Pro
- Screen Time-based blocks can occasionally glitch
iPhone and Android users who want firm, scheduled limits on distracting apps
you want a free blocker or only need a gentle nudge
Questions about Opal
Is Opal free?
Opal has a free plan with basic blocking and focus sessions. Opal Pro adds more schedules, stricter modes and deeper reports.
How does Opal block apps on iPhone?
Opal uses Apple's Screen Time framework, so iOS itself enforces the blocks after you grant access through a standard system prompt.
What are the best alternatives to Opal?
The closest alternatives are one sec, Forest and Waking Up. See all of them ranked on our Opal alternatives page.
Where does Opal rank?
Opal ranks #8 of 9 in our Mind & Focus ranking, with an overall score of 8.3 out of 10.