SocialDiet vs Opal
as of November 2026
In short
Opal is a focus app: it blocks the apps and websites you choose, on schedules or timed sessions, on iPhone, Android and Mac. SocialDiet does not block social apps — it opens them without the endless short video. If you want your phone locked during work, Opal fits. If you want Instagram without Reels, SocialDiet fits.
| Feature | SocialDiet | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Keep the app, remove Reels / Shorts / Explore / ads inside it | Block chosen apps and websites by schedule, limit or focus timerOpal on the App Store · opalapp.com |
| Messages during a block | Always available | Blocked with the app, unless you allow the appOpal on the App Store |
| Devices | iPhone (coming soon) | iPhone, Android and Macopalapp.com |
| Uses Apple’s Screen Time | Yes, for the optional native app shield | Yes — “We use Apple’s Screen Time API in order to monitor and block apps you use.”Opal on the App Store |
| Strict mode | Hard Mode | Hard Mode — “You can’t turn Opal off.”opalapp.com |
| App Store privacy label | Not published yet — we plan no tracking SDKs | Lists “Data Used to Track You: Identifiers”Opal on the App Store |
| Price | 3 days free (no card), then subscription | Free download with in‑app subscriptions; see their listingOpal on the App Store |
Opal is a better fit if…
- You want deep‑work sessions with apps locked.
- You need the same blocker on Mac or Android.
- You like scores, streaks and rewards for focus time.
SocialDiet is a better fit if…
- Blocking keeps failing because you need the app for people.
- You want the feed of people you follow, not the algorithm.
- You want the short‑video part gone all day, not only during sessions.
Opal claims are quoted from its website and App Store listing. Opal and SocialDiet can be used together.
Sources (as of November 2026)
- Opal on the App Store — https://apps.apple.com/us/app/opal-screen-time-for-focus/id1497465230
- opalapp.com — https://opalapp.com/