BePresent Alternatives to Block Apps & Websites

BePresent vs. Refocus: What is the best app blocker for the iPhone?

What Is The Best BePresent Alternative?

The top alternative for BePresent app is Refocus.


Refocus for iPhone (or iPad & Mac)

Refocus is the best app blocker for those who prioritize ease of use and powerful flexibility.

Pros:

  • Simple: within the first minute, you'll be set up to block apps in the most optimal way.

  • Flexible & Powerful: Refocus includes strict modes and other advanced options to customize your app-blocking setup to fit your needs.

  • Quality: while Refocus doesn’t have a flashy design, it’s best-in-class for reliability.

  • Great free-tier: Refocus has one of the best free tiers.

Cons:

  • No gamification: Refocus focuses on simplicity and flexibility, so it lacks gamification features like pairing with a friend to track screen time or “unlocking apps after 1,000 steps.”

App Store Link


BePresent for iPhone (or iPad)

BePresent is a screen-time control app that mixes app-blocking sessions with gamification, friend challenges, and real-life rewards to help you stay off your phone.

Pros:

  • Gamified motivation: points/badges, quests, and leaderboards make “less scrolling” feel rewarding.

  • Social accountability: run group sessions and compete with friends so it’s not just willpower.

Cons:

  • Not minimalist: if you dislike rewards/leaderboards, it can feel like “extra” around a simple goal. The “game layer” can be distracting in its own way if you want simple, quiet blocking.

App Store Link