Opal vs. ScreenZen vs. PravaApp: Which is Really Free (and Which Actually Helps You Focus)?
If you've ever searched for a "free alternative to Opal" or "app to limit screen time", you've likely felt frustrated. Most apps in this category promise freedom, but end up placing a paywall just when you're starting to make progress. Today, we're comparing the three most powerful options of 2026: Opal, ScreenZen, and PravaApp.
1. Opal: The "Deep Focus" Giant
Opal is, without a doubt, the best-known app. Its design is impeccable, and its ability to block apps at the system level is very effective.
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- The good: Premium interface, very granular "Whitelist", and detailed statistics.
- The bad: The price. The free version is extremely limited. To access most of the "Deep Focus" features or scheduling blocks, you need an annual subscription that is not cheap.
- Verdict: If you don't mind paying a premium subscription for a sleek design, Opal is great. But if you're looking for something functional without opening your wallet, you'll be disappointed.
2. ScreenZen: The "Pause" Approach
ScreenZen became popular for its unique approach: instead of blocking an app directly, it makes you wait a few seconds or perform a breathing exercise before opening it.
- The good: It is much more generous in its free version than Opal. Its goal is to create awareness, not just block.
- The bad: Its setup can be confusing and overwhelming. It has so many options that you sometimes spend more time configuring the app than working.
- Verdict: A great free option, but with a high learning curve.
3. PravaApp: The "Identity and Awareness" Alternative
PravaApp was not born to be just a blocker. It was born to protect the human ability to create. While Opal blocks you and ScreenZen makes you wait, PravaApp helps you understand who you are when you're not in front of the screen.
- The good:
- It's really free: The main monitoring and dashboard functions are available to everyone.
- Dashboard Demo: You can see how it works before installing it at web.prava.app/demo.
- Focus on Deep Work: It's not about "punishing" you without apps, but freeing up time for what really matters (your "Prabhava" or power of creation).
- The bad: We are still polishing some social integrations, but we grow each day with real feedback from creators.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Function | Opal | ScreenZen | PravaApp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Version | Very limited | Wide | Complete |
| Focus | Strict Blocking | Pause/Breathing | Awareness/Deep Work |
| Cross-platform | Mainly iOS | iOS/Android | Web/Android/Windows |
| Philosophy | Productivity | Impulse Control | Creator Protection |
Conclusion: Which One to Choose?
- If you want status and design (and can afford it): Opal.
- If you want breathing exercises before opening Instagram: ScreenZen.
- If you want to reclaim your time for creating, with a philosophy based on awareness and without absurd paywalls: Try PravaApp today.
We are not just a screen time app. We are the protector of your focus.