Cold Turkey Blocker review

Cold Turkey Blocker is for people who have tried softer tools and still find a way around them. The free version blocks websites for a set time, supports website exceptions and shows statistics. Block lists can target whole domains, specific URLs, YouTube channels, search keywords or wildcard patterns, and adding a wildcard for every site blocks the whole internet. Blocked pages show a reminder to do something else, and Pause for a Cause lets you donate to the World Wildlife Fund for a 10 minute break, which you can disable. Pro, a one-time purchase with lifetime updates, adds application blocking, scheduled blocks, an application password, locking features and breaks and allowances. One purchase covers all computers you personally use on Windows and macOS, and students can ask for 20% off. There is no Linux, ChromeOS, Android or iOS version. The Pro price did not load as text in our check, so it is marked pending.

Who it is for

Desktop users who want a blocker that is hard to switch off.

Price

Free version; Pro is a one-time lifetime purchase (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Free website blocking with exceptions, timed blocks and statistics
• Block domains, specific URLs, YouTube channels, searches and wildcards
• Pro adds application blocking, scheduled blocks and locking features
• Pro breaks and allowances
• Pause for a Cause, which donates to the WWF for a 10 minute break

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Free version covers timed website blocking
• Strength: One-time purchase covers all your personal computers
• Strength: Students can request 20% off Pro
• Weakness: Windows and macOS only, with no phone or Linux support
• Weakness: App blocking and schedules need Pro
• Weakness: Strict locks can be too rigid for casual users

Key facts

• Free version: Yes, website blocking
• Platforms: Windows and macOS
• Pro: One-time lifetime license
• Refund: 30 days

Where it ranks

Cold Turkey Blocker is No. 8 in our Best Free Focus Apps verdict.