Comparison
Ravelo vs Opal
Both block distracting apps on your iPhone, but they start from opposite assumptions. Opal starts open: you create rules to temporarily close apps. Ravelo treats entertainment like a bank balance: distracting apps are locked by default, and access is time you earn and spend.
The model that changes everything
Opal
Session-based
You create a rule or start a session. Apps are blocked while it runs. When it ends — or if you skip it — access returns. Enforcement depends on starting the session first.
Ravelo
Default-blocked
Distracting apps stay blocked through iOS Screen Time. You unlock them with Time Currency earned through useful apps or Focus Sessions. The protected state is already active.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Ravelo | Opal |
|---|---|---|
Blocking model Ravelo keeps apps blocked until you earn access | Default-blocked (always on) | Session / rule-based |
Earning mechanic | Yes | No |
Off-phone Focus Sessions | Yes | No |
Hard blocking | Pro — Hardcore Mode | Pro — Harder Difficulty |
Weekly Goals enforcement | Pro — hard rule | No |
Allow Only mode | No | Pro |
Analytics | Productivity ROI, Focus Trend, Time Distribution | Opal Score |
Platforms | iPhone | iOS, Android, Mac |
Free tier | Time Currency with limited sources | 1 Rule |
Pricing | $80/year · $9.99/month | $99.99/year · $19.99/month · $399 lifetime |
Which is more effective for ADHD?
Opal’s Harder Blocking Difficulty prevents unblocking during an active session, but you still need to start that session before an impulse arrives. For many people with ADHD, that gap is the central failure point.
Ravelo’s block is already active before you open your phone. Hardcore Mode removes remaining overrides and can turn Weekly Goals into enforced limits.
Its earning mechanic also adds immediate, concrete reinforcement instead of relying on restriction alone.
When Opal is the better choice
- You need Android or Mac support now
- You want Allow Only mode
- You prefer scheduled focus blocks
- Your main issue is discipline during planned work sessions
When Ravelo is the better choice
- You struggle to enforce limits in impulsive moments
- Distraction happens throughout the day
- Much of your productive work happens away from the phone
- You want earning-based positive reinforcement
- You need Hardcore Mode and enforced weekly limits
Need Mac or Android blocking too? Compare Ravelo with Freedom.
