Jomo is one of the most elegant blockers on iPhone, and its squads share screen-time numbers with friends. But sharing numbers isn't the same as having something at stake — and blocking isn't the only mechanic. Five apps people consider instead, honestly compared: one is ours (bias disclosed).
Squads share screen-time numbers, but there's nothing to win or lose between you. Visibility alone doesn't move everyone.
Rules and strict modes restrict; they don't give you a reason to stay off once the block lifts.
~$29.99/year is fair for what Jomo does — but two strong options below are free.
our app — bias disclosed, judge accordingly
people who want polished, hard-to-bypass focus blocking and deep analytics
Scheduled focus sessions and Deep Focus that block chosen apps with no bypass, plus a focus score and analytics.
people who want a solid free blocker without paying
Progressive open-delays, scroll interruptions and per-app goals to break automatic habits.
people who want a gentle pause and autonomy rather than hard blocking
Adds a deep-breath pause before each app opens, then asks if you still want to continue — friction, not blocking.
people drawn to a science-led, monk-mode approach
A 'monk mode', lockdown editing of distracting apps, and challenges with friends, framed around brain chemistry.
| Jomo | Pauza | |
|---|---|---|
| Core approach | Rules, a strict mode, and 'squads' where you share your screen-time numbers — deeply iOS-native and design-forward. | Rewards time OFF your phone: every minute away from social media becomes tokens, builds streaks, and can be staked in head-to-head bets with a friend — lowest screen time wins the pot. |
| Price | around $29.99/year | free core app; optional PRO tier |
| Social layer | squads share screen-time numbers — visibility, but nothing at stake between you | real head-to-head stakes with friends — lowest screen time wins the pot (tokens only, no cash value) |
| When you slip | strict mode holds the block during the periods you set | streaks freeze instead of breaking; a lost bet costs tokens, never money |
| Privacy | built on Apple's Screen Time framework; squad members see the numbers you share | per-app usage and your blocked-apps list never leave the device; friends only see an anonymous daily minute total |
| Platform | iPhone | iPhone only (iOS 26+) |
Full breakdown: Pauza vs Jomo
This page is written by the team behind Pauza, so read it with that in mind — we've kept every claim factual and point out where the other app is genuinely the better choice. Prices are approximate as of July 2026 and change often; always check the App Store for current pricing. All product names are trademarks of their respective owners; Pauza is not affiliated with or endorsed by any of them.
Pricing for Jomo is around $29.99/year. Prices are approximate and change — the App Store listing is the source of truth. Pauza's core is free on iOS 26+: tracking, tokens, streaks, a daily Hard Mode block and friend challenges cost nothing. PRO is $59.99/year or $9.99/month and only lifts the caps.
Every iPhone subscription cancels the same way, Jomo included: open Settings, tap your name at the top, then Subscriptions, then Jomo, then Cancel Subscription. Deleting the app does not stop billing, and you keep access until the end of the period you already paid for.
What Pauza costs, in full: pricing & plans
ScreenZen — free open-delays, scroll interruptions and per-app goals. Pauza's core (tracking, tokens, streaks, friend challenges) is also free on iOS 26+.
Yes — Pauza turns the comparison into a real bet: both friends stake tokens and the lowest screen time takes the pot (tokens only, no cash value). Jomo squads share numbers without stakes.
Opal — scheduled sessions, hard-to-bypass Deep Focus and rich analytics, though at around $99.99/year it costs roughly three times more. Prices are approximate — check the App Store.
No — pricing for Jomo is around $29.99/year. Prices are approximate and change — the App Store listing is the source of truth. Pauza's core is free on iOS 26+: tracking, tokens, streaks, a daily Hard Mode block and friend challenges cost nothing. PRO is $59.99/year or $9.99/month and only lifts the caps.
Pricing for Jomo is around $29.99/year. Prices are approximate and change — the App Store listing is the source of truth. For comparison, Pauza is free with an optional PRO tier at $59.99/year or $9.99/month.
Every iPhone subscription cancels the same way, Jomo included: open Settings, tap your name at the top, then Subscriptions, then Jomo, then Cancel Subscription. Deleting the app does not stop billing, and you keep access until the end of the period you already paid for.
We don't publish other companies' discount terms — check the Jomo website or its App Store listing for current offers. With Pauza there is nothing to discount: the core app is free on iOS 26+, and PRO only lifts the caps.
More: Opal alternatives · one sec alternatives · ClearSpace alternatives · Roots alternatives · ScreenZen alternatives · Forest alternatives · BePresent alternatives · Unrot alternatives · Brainrot alternatives · all screen time apps compared
Every minute off social media earns tokens — and you can bet a friend on who scrolls less.
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