SelfControl is a free and open-source distraction blocker for macOS that helps you focus by blocking access to distracting websites, mail servers, or anything else on the internet.
Once started, you can’t undo it — even by restarting your Mac. 🧠💻
- 🚫 Website Blocking — block distracting websites and domains system-wide
- 🕐 Timer Control — set focus sessions for up to 24 hours
- 🧱 System-Level Protection — can’t be bypassed by quitting or rebooting
- 🔒 Privacy-Friendly — no data collection or internet access required
- ⚡ Apple Silicon Support — optimized for M1, M2, and M3 Macs
- 🌙 Lightweight Interface — simple UI for immediate focus control
SelfControl has long been a favorite among writers, developers, and students who need deep focus.
Unlike typical blockers, it operates at the system level, ensuring websites remain blocked regardless of your browser or network.
This macOS-native version offers enhanced performance and integration with macOS Focus Mode, allowing users to automatically trigger SelfControl sessions during work hours.
It’s completely open-source, secure, and free — powered by community contributions and Apple’s native frameworks.
Set a focus session duration and start blocking instantly.
| Feature | SelfControl (macOS) | Focus App | Cold Turkey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Website Blocking | ✅ Full | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| System-Level Protection | ✅ Unstoppable | ✅ Yes | |
| Apple Silicon Support | ✅ Native | ✅ Native | |
| Offline Mode | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Timer Automation | ✅ Manual | ✅ Scheduled | ✅ Scheduled |
| Price | ✅ Free (Open Source) |
- Add social media, news, or messaging sites to your block list
- Pair with Focus Mode or Pomodoro timers for better workflow control
- Run automatically via Shortcuts or Terminal with preset durations
- Save multiple custom blocklists for different tasks (study, coding, work)
- Combine with Be Focused for time-boxed productivity
- 🎓 Students: block distractions during study sessions
- 👩💻 Developers: eliminate time-wasting websites while coding
- 🧠 Writers: stay in creative flow without interruptions
- 💼 Professionals: maintain focus during deep work sessions
- 🧘 Freelancers: structure work blocks efficiently
- macOS: 12.0 Monterey or newer
- Processor: Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) or Intel
- RAM: 2 GB minimum
- Storage: 150 MB free space
- Permissions: Admin privileges for system-level blocking
- 📂 Verified macOS reference setup
- ⚙️ One-click installation via GitHub instruction link
- 🧩 Includes sample blocklists for productivity
- 🔄 Works offline and independently of browsers
- 💬 Community automation scripts and focus presets
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1️⃣ Download SelfControl for macOS — open-source distraction blocker that helps you stay productive by blocking websites system-wide on Apple Silicon.
2️⃣ Get SelfControl on Mac — block distractions, boost focus, and work uninterrupted with a simple open-source tool built for macOS.