Comparison

SelfControl vs
FocusJar

SelfControl blocks sites for free but gives you zero flexibility. FocusJar adds the missing piece: real financial stakes that make focus non-negotiable.

Download FocusJar Free

The verdict

SelfControl is free and rigid. FocusJar is free and effective.

SelfControl is a beloved open-source Mac app that blocks sites with an iron fist - no undo, no escape, even reinstalling won't help. It's effective but inflexible: there are no presets, no smart features, and no accountability model beyond raw lockout. FocusJar matches the system-level blocking but adds financial consequences that leverage behavioral psychology to keep you focused.

Feature comparison

Side by side

Feature
FocusJar
SelfControl
System-level blocking (all browsers)
Financial accountability / unlock fees
Survives restarts
Bypass-proof (no incognito workarounds)
No account required
Free to use (pay only on unlock)
Session-based blocking
Preset site lists
macOS support
Windows support
iOS / mobile support
Browser extension alternative

Key differences

What sets FocusJar apart

Accountability over brute force

SelfControl's approach is binary: blocked or not blocked. FocusJar adds a financial layer - you can unblock, but it costs you. This makes the commitment feel real because there's a tangible consequence, not just a wall.

Presets and smart lists

SelfControl requires you to manually add every domain you want to block. FocusJar comes with curated preset lists - block 33+ social media, news, or entertainment sites with one click.

Actively maintained

SelfControl is a community-maintained open-source project with infrequent updates. FocusJar is actively developed with regular updates, new features, and direct support.

Ready?

Ready to try real
accountability?

FocusJar is free during beta. The only thing you pay for is giving up.

Download for macOS

Free during beta · macOS 13+ · No account required

FAQ

Common questions

Just download FocusJar and start using it. There's nothing to migrate - add your blocked sites (or use presets) and set your financial stakes.
SelfControl blocks sites with no way to undo until the timer runs out. FocusJar blocks the same way but adds financial accountability - you can unlock early, but you have to pay. It also includes preset site lists, a modern interface, and active development.
SelfControl is free and always will be. FocusJar is also free to use - you only pay unlock fees. The reason to switch is the accountability model: financial stakes are proven to work better than willpower alone, and FocusJar offers a more polished experience with preset lists.

Stop negotiating
with yourself.

Every minute you spend deciding whether to check Twitter is a minute lost. Let FocusJar make the decision for you - or make you pay for it.

Download for macOS

Free during beta · macOS 13+ · No account required to start