Comparison
Ravelo vs Freedom
Freedom is a mature cross-platform blocker. Ravelo is intentionally focused: currently on iPhone, designed around ADHD-related friction, and structured around earning access rather than scheduling sessions. Here is what matters when choosing between them.
The model that changes everything
Freedom
Session-based
Start a session immediately, on a schedule, or on repeat. Apps and sites reopen when it ends. Locked Mode prevents quitting early, but every session still has an end.
Ravelo
Default-blocked
Distracting apps remain blocked through iOS Screen Time. Entertainment opens only with Time Currency earned through useful apps or Focus Sessions.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Ravelo | Freedom |
|---|---|---|
Blocking model | Default-blocked | Session-based |
Earning mechanic | Yes | No |
Off-phone Focus Sessions | Yes | No |
Locked / Hardcore mode | Pro — Hardcore Mode | Premium — Locked Mode |
Weekly Goals enforcement | Pro — hard rule | No |
Automatic scheduling | No | Premium |
Pomodoro | No | Premium |
Platforms | iPhone | iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Chromebook |
Multi-device sync | No | Unlimited devices |
ADHD-specific design | Yes | No |
Free tier | Time Currency with limits | Sync and custom blocklists |
Pricing | $80/year · $9.99/month | $39.99/year · $8.99/month · $99.50 lifetime |
ADHD and the session-start problem
Freedom’s Locked Mode is effective when you remember to start it and want to protect planned deep work. The unprotected moment between tasks remains the weak point.
Ravelo’s default-blocked model removes that gap: there is nothing to activate before picking up the phone.
Focus Sessions still let laptop work, training, or study away from the phone earn iPhone access.
Pricing: closer month to month, wider on annual
Freedom costs $8.99 month to month and Ravelo costs $9.99. On annual plans Freedom is $39.99 while Ravelo is $80.
Ravelo’s additional cost pays for an always-on earning model, off-phone Focus Sessions, and Hardcore Mode with enforceable Weekly Goals.
If cross-platform coverage is the priority, Freedom is the stronger and cheaper option. If the core problem is impulsive iPhone use, Ravelo offers a more opinionated enforcement model.
When Freedom is the better choice
- You need Mac, Windows, Android, and Chromebook support
- You prefer scheduled or recurring sessions
- Annual price is the priority
- You want built-in Pomodoro sessions
- Website blocking is your main need
When Ravelo is the better choice
- You struggle with impulsive iPhone use between tasks
- You want enforcement without starting a session
- You regularly work away from the phone
- You need Hardcore Mode and enforced Weekly Goals
- You prefer earning access over pure restriction
Also comparing: Ravelo vs Opal.
