Best Alternatives to Orbit in 2025
Orbit is a clever iOS app blocker that adds friction to doomscrolling by making you earn your app unlocks through challenges like holding an orb, doing squats, or paying a fee. But it's not the only game in town. Whether you want stricter blocking, more customization, or a different approach to digital wellbeing, here are the best alternatives to Orbit.
Opal
Opal is a polished iOS screen time app that blocks distracting apps and offers focus sessions, deep focus modes, and insightful analytics. It's ideal if you want a more comprehensive digital wellbeing toolkit with a sleek interface and strong blocking capabilities.
Freedom
Freedom is a cross-platform blocker that works on iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows. It lets you block apps and websites on a schedule, and its 'Locked Mode' makes blocks impossible to bypass without restarting your device. Perfect if you need robust, multi-device blocking.
Forest
Forest gamifies focus by planting a virtual tree that grows while you stay off your phone. If you respond better to positive reinforcement than friction-based challenges, Forest's reward system and real-world tree planting can be highly motivating.
one sec
one sec adds a brief pause before opening distracting apps, forcing you to take a breath and reconsider. It's a gentler alternative to Orbit's challenges, focusing on mindfulness rather than earning access through effort or payment.
AppBlock
AppBlock is a powerful Android app blocker that lets you block apps, websites, and notifications on a schedule or with a timer. It's a great choice if you're on Android and want granular control without the iOS limitations.
Moment
Moment is an iOS app that tracks your screen time and helps you set daily limits. It's less about hard blocking and more about awareness and habit formation, making it a good fit if you prefer data-driven insights over friction-based unlocks.
StayFree
StayFree is a free screen time tracker and app blocker for Android and iOS. It offers detailed usage stats, customizable limits, and gentle reminders. It's a solid budget-friendly alternative if you want core blocking features without the gamified challenges.
Orbit stands out for its creative friction-based challenges, but the best alternative depends on your needs. Opal and Freedom offer robust blocking with more customization, Forest gamifies focus positively, one sec promotes mindfulness, AppBlock and StayFree are great for Android users, and Moment focuses on awareness. Consider these options to find the digital wellbeing tool that fits your style.