Which website blocker actually works?

[Victoria_A]

I need a good app to block distracting websites when I'm trying to work. I just end up turning the blocker off. Does anyone use one that actually works?

[Amelia.W]

Yep, I use Freedom and it actually helps keep me away from distracting sites.

[JacobW]

Most folks I know go with Freedom or Cold Turkey because they lock down the browser or phone on a schedule. You can block a big space of sites or just the ones that chew your time, and you can set a timed session so you can't flip the switch.

[NicholasXJ]

Two common choices are Freedom and Cold Turkey because they work across devices and let you schedule blocks. If you mostly work in a browser, StayFocusd (Chrome) or LeechBlock (Firefox) are lighter and easier to tweak. The downside is most tools rely on willpower for anything outside the locked mode, and some people find they keep finding loopholes. A simple plan: pick one tool, set a two hour work block in the morning, and create a whitelist for the few sites you actually need. Keep it deterministic, not a maze, and use the period to build the habit of starting with focus rather than chasing endless settings.

[George90]

Here's the long take. The best blocker is the one you actually use, not the one with the coolest feature set. Start by naming your goal: a focused 90‑minute sprint or finishing a task without wandering. Then pick a tool that matches your devices. Freedom or Cold Turkey feel solid for cross‑device blocking and unlock protection, while StayFocusd (Chrome) or LeechBlock (Firefox) are lighter and easier to tailor. If you want to block apps too, some tools offer system‑wide blocks; if not, you can still achieve a lot with browser blocks plus a minimal desktop profile.

Set a simple plan: pick two hours in the morning, create a tight white list with only work sites, and block everything else. If you must check email, leave a single, time-limited window. The moment you’re tempted to turn off the blocker, take a breath, remind yourself of the blank space you’re protecting, and log the urge somewhere. That could be as simple as jotting a note in a task manager or a text file to review later.

Another trick is the “two-step” lock. First disable the blocker temporarily for a few minutes only if you’ve already started a clearly defined task; second, remove the temptation to re‑enable by moving the blocker to a separate app or a different device profile you can’t easily override.

On mobile, consider Focus modes or a work profile to keep distractions out during your productive hours. If you’re trying to cut down on time-wasting explorations, pair blockers with a short daily review: did you shrink the empty space on your screen this week, or did you slip back?

Bottom line: pick one tool, set a consistent block window, and treat it like training wheels rather than a jail cell. It works best when you actually use it, not when you endlessly tweak it.