SelfControl
Free Mac app that blocks distracting sites until a timer ends
What is SelfControl?
SelfControl is a free, open-source Mac app that blocks your own access to chosen websites, mail servers or other internet addresses for a set period. Once a block starts it cannot be stopped: it stays in force until the timer runs out, even if you restart the computer or delete the app. It is a volunteer project licensed under the GNU GPL.
SelfControl is free to use. See every plan
Good for
- Mac users who want a free blocker they cannot switch off mid-block
- Blocking a fixed list of sites for a set number of hours
- People who prefer open-source software they can inspect or modify
Worth knowing
- macOS only: the project's FAQ says there are no plans for Windows, Linux or iOS versions.
- A running block cannot be ended early, and the app has no built-in scheduling or recurring blocks.
- Blocks do not work properly over a VPN, and Firefox has to be quit and restarted after each block starts.
- It is maintained by volunteers, almost entirely one person, and the FAQ warns that support replies can take months.
Key features
- Blocks that cannot be undone
- Set a duration, add sites to the blocklist and click Start. The block holds until the timer expires, even after a restart or deleting the app.
- Blocklist or allowlist
- Block the domains you list, or switch to an allowlist that permits only its entries. Entries can also name mail servers or specific ports.
- Saved lists
- A list can be saved as a file from the File menu and opened again later or on another Mac, where it replaces the current list.
- Command-line interface
- SelfControl can be run from the Terminal, which lets advanced users write scripts that start blocks.
- Blocks longer than 24 hours
- Longer blocks are possible but hidden by default; the project wiki explains how to enable them and advises testing a list with a short block first.
SelfControl pricing
- Starts at
- Free
- Free plan
- Free and open-source software under the GNU GPL. The site lists no paid version.
- Free trial
- None listed
| Plan | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| SelfControl | $0 | The complete Mac app: timed blocks, blocklists or allowlists, saved lists and a command-line interface. |
Read from selfcontrolapp.com on Oct 5, 2026. Prices change, so confirm with SelfControl before you buy.
SelfControl alternatives
- SelfControl vs Cold Turkey Blocker
Free plan · from $45 one-time
- SelfControl vs Freedom
Free plan · from $3.33/mo
- SelfControl vs Focus
Free trial · from $49 one-time
Common questions
Is SelfControl free?
Yes. SelfControl is free to use. Free and open-source software under the GNU GPL. The site lists no paid version.
How much does SelfControl cost?
SelfControl lists one plan. SelfControl: $0. Prices were read from selfcontrolapp.com on Oct 5, 2026.
What platforms does SelfControl work on?
SelfControl is available on macOS.
Does SelfControl have an Android app?
No Android app was listed when its pages were read on Oct 5, 2026. SelfControl is listed for macOS.
Does SelfControl have an iPhone app?
No iPhone app was listed when its pages were read on Oct 5, 2026. SelfControl is listed for macOS.
Is SelfControl open source?
Yes. SelfControl is open source, according to its own site.
Who makes SelfControl?
SelfControl is made by Charlie Stigler and Steve Lambert.
What are the alternatives to SelfControl?
The closest alternatives to SelfControl in our directory are Cold Turkey Blocker, Freedom, Focus and LeechBlock NG. Each one has a side-by-side comparison with SelfControl.
Sources for this page
The prices, plans, platforms and features above were read from these pages on Oct 5, 2026.