10 Best Focus & Productivity Tools for Remote Workers [2025 Updated]
Working from home means unlimited access to distractions. These 10 focus and productivity tools help remote workers block distractions, maintain concentration, and get more done—without burning out.
Why Focus Tools Matter for Remote Work
Remote work offers incredible flexibility, but it also places your home office steps away from the kitchen, TV, social media, and countless other distractions. Without the social accountability of an office environment, maintaining focus can be challenging. Focus and productivity tools help by blocking digital distractions, creating focused work environments, and building better work habits.
Block Distractions
Prevent access to time-wasting websites and apps during work hours.
Enhance Focus
Use music, timers, and techniques to maintain deep concentration.
Build Habits
Create sustainable productivity patterns that prevent burnout.
Types of Focus Tools
Focus and productivity tools fall into several categories:
- Website/App Blockers: Prevent access to distracting sites (Freedom, Cold Turkey, StayFocusd)
- Focus Music: Scientifically designed audio to enhance concentration (Focus@Will, Brain.fm)
- Gamified Focus: Make productivity fun with rewards and visualization (Forest)
- Pomodoro Timers: Structured work/break intervals (Focus Booster, Serene)
- All-in-One Solutions: Combined planning, blocking, and tracking (Serene, RescueTime Premium)
💡 Important: Focus Isn't Everything
While these tools help you concentrate, remember that productivity isn't just about constant focus. Your brain needs breaks to process information, and your body needs movement to stay healthy. The best productivity strategy combines focused work with regular breaks—that's why we recommend using DeskBreak alongside any focus tool.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Type | Price | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freedom | Website & App Blocker | $8.99/month or $39.99/year | Blocking distractions across all devices | ★4.7 |
| Forest | Gamified Focus Timer | $3.99 one-time (mobile) or $1.99/month (browser) | Gamifying focus with a fun, visual approach | ★4.8 |
| Focus@Will | Neuroscience-Based Focus Music | $9.99/month or $69.99/year | Using scientifically-designed music to enhance focus | ★4.5 |
| Cold Turkey | Hardcore Website & App Blocker | Free (basic) or $39 one-time (Pro) | Strict blocking that can't be bypassed | ★4.6 |
| Brain.fm | AI-Generated Focus Music | $9.99/month or $69.99/year | AI-powered music scientifically designed for focus | ★4.6 |
| RescueTime Premium | Automatic Productivity Tracking & Focus Sessions | $12/month | Understanding and improving time management | ★4.5 |
| Serene | All-in-One Focus & Planning App | $8/month or $48/year | Combining planning, blocking, and focus in one tool | ★4.4 |
| StayFocusd | Free Chrome Extension | Free | Budget-conscious Chrome users | ★4.3 |
| Focus Booster | Pomodoro Timer & Time Tracker | Free - $5/month | Pomodoro technique with time tracking | ★4.4 |
| LeechBlock NG | Free Browser Extension | Free | Open-source, privacy-focused blocking | ★4.5 |
Detailed Reviews
1. Freedom
Overview
Freedom is one of the most powerful distraction-blocking tools available, working across all your devices simultaneously. It allows you to block websites, apps, and even the entire internet on your computer, phone, and tablet. With scheduled sessions, recurring blocks, and locked mode (which prevents you from disabling it mid-session), Freedom is ideal for remote workers who struggle with self-control around digital distractions.
Best For
Blocking distractions across all devices
Key Features
- ✓Block websites and apps on all devices simultaneously
- ✓Schedule recurring block sessions
- ✓Locked mode prevents you from cheating
- ✓Block entire internet or specific sites
- ✓Sync across Mac, Windows, iOS, Android
- ✓Ambient sounds and focus music
- ✓Session history and analytics
- ✓Unlimited blocklists
Pros
- +Works across ALL devices at once
- +Can't be easily disabled during sessions
- +Great scheduling and automation
- +Blocks apps on desktop (not just browsers)
- +One-time annual payment option
Cons
- −Can feel too restrictive at times
- −No free plan (only 7-day trial)
- −Learning curve for advanced features
- −Requires installation on each device
Pricing
Freedom blocks distractions so you can focus—but don't forget to take breaks! Use DeskBreak alongside Freedom to schedule healthy break reminders that work around your focus sessions. Deep work is important, but so is movement.
2. Forest
Overview
Forest takes a delightful approach to focus: when you want to concentrate, you plant a virtual tree that grows during your focus session. If you leave the app to check social media or other blocked apps, your tree dies. Over time, you grow a beautiful forest representing your productive hours. Forest also partners with real tree-planting organizations, so your focus sessions contribute to actual reforestation efforts.
Best For
Gamifying focus with a fun, visual approach
Key Features
- ✓Plant virtual trees during focus sessions
- ✓Trees die if you use blocked apps
- ✓Grow a forest representing your productivity
- ✓Real trees planted through partner organizations
- ✓Whitelist for necessary apps
- ✓Focus statistics and tracking
- ✓Team rooms for group accountability
- ✓Available on iOS, Android, and Chrome
Pros
- +Fun and motivating gamification
- +Contributes to real environmental impact
- +Beautiful, calming interface
- +One-time purchase (mobile)
- +Great for visual learners
Cons
- −Only blocks apps on mobile, not websites
- −Browser extension requires separate subscription
- −Limited customization compared to competitors
- −Can feel gimmicky for some users
Pricing
Forest's tree metaphor is wonderful for focus—but remember, even trees need water and sunlight! Pair Forest with DeskBreak to ensure your focus sessions include regular breaks for your eyes, back, and mental energy.
3. Focus@Will
Overview
Focus@Will is different from other focus tools—instead of blocking distractions, it uses neuroscience-based music to help your brain maintain concentration. The music is specifically designed to occupy the parts of your brain that wander, allowing you to focus on the task at hand. With dozens of channels across multiple genres, it adapts to your work style and energy level.
Best For
Using scientifically-designed music to enhance focus
Key Features
- ✓Neuroscience-based music channels
- ✓50+ music genres and intensity levels
- ✓Personalized to your productivity type
- ✓Timer and session tracking
- ✓Productivity analytics
- ✓Offline listening (premium)
- ✓No lyrics to distract
- ✓Works while using other apps
Pros
- +Science-backed approach to focus
- +Non-intrusive—just background music
- +Variety of genres for different moods
- +Helps with ADHD and concentration issues
- +Money-back guarantee
Cons
- −Subscription required (no free tier)
- −Music may not suit everyone's taste
- −More expensive than Spotify/Apple Music
- −Requires internet (free tier)
- −Doesn't block distractions
Pricing
Focus@Will creates the perfect audio environment for concentration. Complete the setup by adding DeskBreak's visual break reminders—your ears get focus music, your body gets movement breaks. Perfect balance for remote work.
4. Cold Turkey
Overview
Cold Turkey is the most hardcore distraction blocker available—it's designed for people who need strict enforcement and can't trust themselves with escape hatches. Once you start a session, there's absolutely no way to disable it until the timer runs out, even if you restart your computer or uninstall the software. The Pro version offers incredibly granular control over what gets blocked and when.
Best For
Strict blocking that can't be bypassed
Key Features
- ✓Unbreakable blocking (can't be disabled)
- ✓Block websites, apps, and processes
- ✓Scheduled and recurring blocks
- ✓Frozen Turkey mode (blocks everything)
- ✓Exception lists and wildcards
- ✓Statistics and productivity reports
- ✓Password protection
- ✓Works offline
Pros
- +Impossible to cheat or bypass
- +One-time payment (not subscription)
- +Extremely powerful and flexible
- +Great for serious procrastination issues
- +Free version is quite functional
Cons
- −Too strict for casual users
- −No mobile app
- −Interface is dated and complex
- −Can lock you out when you need access
- −Windows only (no Mac version)
Pricing
Cold Turkey's strict blocking helps you work without distractions—but don't block your health! Configure DeskBreak to remind you about breaks even during your Cold Turkey sessions. Productivity is important, but so is avoiding burnout.
5. Brain.fm
Overview
Brain.fm uses artificial intelligence to generate music that's specifically designed to affect your brain state. Unlike traditional music or even Focus@Will, Brain.fm's AI creates unique audio that's engineered to enhance focus, relaxation, or sleep. The music includes subtle rhythmic patterns that encourage your brain to maintain attention. It's backed by scientific research and works particularly well for people who find traditional music distracting.
Best For
AI-powered music scientifically designed for focus
Key Features
- ✓AI-generated music for focus, relaxation, and sleep
- ✓Scientifically tested and proven effective
- ✓Functional music (not just playlists)
- ✓Adjustable intensity levels
- ✓Session timer with reminders
- ✓Offline mode
- ✓No lyrics or recognizable melodies
- ✓Works with or without headphones
Pros
- +Scientifically proven to work
- +Uniquely generated (never repetitive)
- +Multiple modes (focus, relax, sleep)
- +Great for people sensitive to lyrics
- +30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- −Music can sound unusual or electronic
- −No free tier (trial only)
- −Doesn't block distractions
- −May not work for everyone
- −Similar to Focus@Will
Pricing
Brain.fm's neural entrainment helps your brain focus—but your body still needs breaks! Use DeskBreak's timers to interrupt your deep focus sessions with essential movement and eye rest breaks.
6. RescueTime Premium
Overview
RescueTime Premium (covered in our time tracking tools page) includes FocusTime—a distraction-blocking feature that helps you maintain concentration. It automatically tracks how you spend time on your computer, categorizes activities as productive or distracting, then allows you to block distracting websites during scheduled focus sessions. The combination of tracking and blocking makes it powerful for behavior change.
Best For
Understanding and improving time management
Key Features
- ✓Automatic time and productivity tracking
- ✓FocusTime blocks distracting websites
- ✓Detailed productivity reports
- ✓Daily and weekly goal setting
- ✓Distraction alerts
- ✓Offline time logging
- ✓Focus session scheduling
- ✓Integrations with calendar tools
Pros
- +Combines tracking with focus tools
- +Insightful productivity analytics
- +Helps identify problem patterns
- +Automatic—no manual effort
- +Great for self-awareness
Cons
- −Premium features required for blocking
- −Only works on computer (no mobile)
- −Can feel intrusive
- −Less powerful blocking than dedicated tools
- −Privacy concerns for some users
Pricing
RescueTime shows you where your time goes and helps you focus—but it doesn't track your wellness. Add DeskBreak to ensure your productive time is also healthy time, with regular breaks for movement and rest.
7. Serene
Overview
Serene takes a holistic approach to productivity by combining daily planning, distraction blocking, focus music, and break reminders in one beautiful macOS app. Each morning, you plan your most important task (MIT) for the day, then Serene helps you execute it by blocking distractions, playing focus music, and even reminding you to take breaks. It's designed for people who want an all-in-one solution rather than juggling multiple tools.
Best For
Combining planning, blocking, and focus in one tool
Key Features
- ✓Daily goal and task planning
- ✓Website blocking during focus sessions
- ✓Built-in focus music (Spotify integration)
- ✓Phone silencing (via iOS integration)
- ✓Break reminders
- ✓Pomodoro timer option
- ✓Session history and analytics
- ✓Beautiful, minimal design
Pros
- +All-in-one solution for focus
- +Beautiful, thoughtful interface
- +Includes break reminders
- +Good for single-tasking approach
- +Reasonable pricing
Cons
- −macOS only (no Windows or mobile app)
- −Requires Spotify for music
- −Less powerful blocking than specialists
- −Opinionated workflow (not flexible)
- −Small development team
Pricing
Serene includes basic break reminders, but DeskBreak offers more comprehensive wellness features like guided exercises, team tracking, and ergonomics assessments. Use both together for the ultimate productivity + wellness setup.
8. StayFocusd
Overview
StayFocusd is a completely free Chrome extension that limits the time you can spend on distracting websites. You set a daily time limit for specific sites, and once you've used up your allotted time, those sites are blocked for the rest of the day. It's simple, effective, and doesn't require a subscription. While not as powerful as paid alternatives, it's perfect for casual users who just need a gentle nudge away from social media.
Best For
Budget-conscious Chrome users
Key Features
- ✓Block websites after time limit reached
- ✓Daily time allowances per site
- ✓Nuclear Option (block everything)
- ✓Active Hours and Active Days settings
- ✓Challenge mode prevents easy disabling
- ✓Custom block pages
- ✓Allowlist for work sites
- ✓Completely free
Pros
- +Completely free forever
- +Simple and effective
- +No account required
- +Nuclear Option for extreme focus
- +Good for self-aware procrastinators
Cons
- −Chrome only (no other browsers)
- −Can be disabled in incognito mode
- −No mobile blocking
- −Easy to work around if you're determined
- −Basic features compared to paid tools
Pricing
StayFocusd keeps you off distracting websites—but make sure you're also taking healthy breaks! DeskBreak works alongside StayFocusd to ensure you're stepping away from your screen regularly, not just avoiding social media.
9. Focus Booster
Overview
Focus Booster combines the Pomodoro Technique (25-minute work sessions with 5-minute breaks) with time tracking and reporting. It's designed for freelancers and consultants who want to use the Pomodoro method while also tracking billable hours. The app provides a clean, minimalist timer interface and generates reports showing how you've spent your time across projects and clients.
Best For
Pomodoro technique with time tracking
Key Features
- ✓Pomodoro timer (25-min work, 5-min break)
- ✓Time tracking by project and client
- ✓Session history and reports
- ✓Export timesheets
- ✓Desktop and mobile apps
- ✓Focus mode hides distractions
- ✓Customizable session lengths
- ✓Sync across devices
Pros
- +Combines Pomodoro with time tracking
- +Clean, distraction-free interface
- +Good for freelancers billing by hour
- +Free plan available
- +Cross-platform
Cons
- −Limited blocking features
- −Pomodoro technique doesn't suit everyone
- −Basic reporting compared to full time trackers
- −Free plan very limited (20 sessions/month)
- −Not actively developed
Pricing
Focus Booster's Pomodoro breaks are great for focus, but they're short (5 min). Use DeskBreak for longer, more comprehensive breaks that include stretching, eye exercises, and posture resets—not just quick pauses.
10. LeechBlock NG
Overview
LeechBlock NG is a free, open-source browser extension that blocks time-wasting websites. It's incredibly powerful and flexible, allowing you to create multiple block sets with different rules, schedules, and time limits. Unlike many free tools, it's actively maintained and respects your privacy (no data collection). It works across Firefox, Chrome, and Edge, making it the best free alternative to paid blockers.
Best For
Open-source, privacy-focused blocking
Key Features
- ✓Block websites by time, schedule, or time limit
- ✓Up to 6 different block sets
- ✓Time-based and scheduled blocking
- ✓Access control (prevent disabling)
- ✓Password protection
- ✓Statistics and time tracking
- ✓Regular expression support
- ✓Completely open-source
Pros
- +Completely free and open-source
- +No data collection or privacy concerns
- +Highly flexible and powerful
- +Active development and updates
- +Works on all major browsers
Cons
- −Complex interface (overwhelming)
- −No mobile support
- −No sync across devices
- −Learning curve for advanced features
- −Easier to bypass than locked tools
Pricing
LeechBlock NG blocks time-wasting sites—but don't forget that taking breaks isn't wasting time! Use DeskBreak to schedule intentional, healthy breaks that give your mind and body the rest they need to stay productive.
How to Choose the Right Focus Tool
1. Identify Your Distraction Type
Different tools work for different distraction patterns:
- Impulsive social media checks: Website blockers (Freedom, Cold Turkey, StayFocusd)
- Background noise sensitivity: Focus music (Focus@Will, Brain.fm)
- Lack of structure: Pomodoro timers (Focus Booster, Serene)
- Low motivation: Gamified tools (Forest)
- General wandering attention: All-in-one tools (Serene, RescueTime Premium)
2. Consider Your Self-Control Level
Be honest about how easily you bypass tools:
- High self-control: Gentle reminders work (StayFocusd, LeechBlock NG)
- Medium self-control: Need some friction (Freedom, Forest)
- Low self-control: Need strict enforcement (Cold Turkey, Freedom Locked Mode)
3. Budget & Value
- Best Free Tools: StayFocusd, LeechBlock NG (browser-based blocking)
- Best One-Time Purchase: Forest ($3.99 mobile), Cold Turkey Pro ($39)
- Best Value Subscriptions: Freedom ($39.99/year), Brain.fm ($69.99/year)
- Premium Options: Focus@Will ($69.99/year), RescueTime Premium ($12/month)
4. Platform Requirements
Make sure the tool works on your devices:
- All Devices: Freedom (Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, Chrome)
- Mac Only: Serene
- Windows Only: Cold Turkey
- Mobile Focus: Forest (iOS/Android)
- Browser Only: StayFocusd (Chrome), LeechBlock NG (all browsers)
5. Work Style Compatibility
- Deep work sessions: Freedom, Cold Turkey, Brain.fm
- Pomodoro technique: Focus Booster, Serene (with built-in timers)
- Flexible schedule: StayFocusd, LeechBlock NG (custom rules)
- Visual/gamified learner: Forest
- Data-driven: RescueTime Premium (analytics + blocking)
⚠️ Warning: Don't Over-Restrict Yourself
Tools like Cold Turkey can lock you out completely, which can backfire if you have a legitimate urgent need. Start with gentler tools and only move to hardcore blockers if necessary. Remember: the goal is sustainable productivity, not punishment.
6. Combine Tools for Best Results
Many people use multiple focus tools together:
- Blocker + Music: Freedom + Brain.fm
- Blocker + Wellness: Cold Turkey + DeskBreak
- Timer + Music: Focus Booster + Focus@Will
- Tracking + Blocking: RescueTime Premium (includes both)
Related DeskBreak Resources
Break & Wellness Tools
Balance your focus time with healthy break reminders.
Time Tracking Tools
Track where your focused time is going.
DeskBreak Reminders
Smart break reminders that work with your focus sessions.
Pomodoro Timer
Free Pomodoro timer with break reminders built-in.
Productivity Calculator
Find your optimal work-break ratio.
DeskBreak for Remote Workers
Complete wellness solution for focus and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Website blockers (like Freedom and Cold Turkey) prevent you from accessing distracting sites and apps, removing temptation entirely. Focus music (like Brain.fm and Focus@Will) uses scientifically designed audio to help your brain maintain concentration without blocking anything. Blockers work for external distractions (websites, social media), while focus music helps with internal distractions (wandering attention). Many people use both together for maximum effect.
Freedom is better if you need cross-platform blocking (it works on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android) and want flexibility with scheduled sessions. Cold Turkey is better if you need the absolute strictest blocking on Windows—it's impossible to bypass even if you restart or uninstall. Freedom costs $39.99/year, while Cold Turkey Pro is $39 one-time. Choose Freedom for multi-device flexibility, Cold Turkey for unbreakable Windows-only blocking.
It depends on the tool and your determination. Free browser extensions (StayFocusd, LeechBlock NG) can be disabled fairly easily—they work through mild friction, not enforcement. Paid blockers (Freedom, Cold Turkey) are much harder to bypass, especially in locked mode. Cold Turkey is essentially impossible to disable once started. The key is choosing a tool that matches your self-control level. If you frequently bypass tools, you need stricter enforcement (Cold Turkey) or might benefit more from focus music (Brain.fm) which doesn't rely on blocking.
Both are excellent and scientifically backed, with similar pricing ($69.99/year). Focus@Will offers more variety with 50+ channels across different genres and lets you choose based on your work type. Brain.fm uses AI to generate unique tracks with neural entrainment patterns that are specifically engineered to affect brain states. Try both free trials—Focus@Will appeals to people who want variety and recognizable genres, while Brain.fm appeals to those who want the most scientifically optimized audio (even if it sounds unusual).
LeechBlock NG is the best free website blocker—it's open-source, privacy-focused, and surprisingly powerful with features like multiple block sets, scheduling, and time limits. StayFocusd is a close second if you prefer simplicity. For mobile, Forest is only $3.99 one-time and well worth it. If you want free focus music, use regular streaming services (Spotify, YouTube) with "study music" or "focus music" playlists—they're not scientifically optimized like Brain.fm, but they're free and still helpful.
It depends on your work type and attention span. Pomodoro technique (25-minute focus, 5-minute break) works well for tasks requiring frequent breaks, people with ADHD, or those new to focused work. Longer sessions (60-90 minutes) work better for deep, creative work that requires getting into flow state. Many people use Pomodoro in the morning when energy is lower, then switch to longer sessions for deep work. Experiment to find what works for you—the best technique is the one you'll actually stick with.
Yes! Many focus tools are particularly helpful for ADHD. Website blockers remove the temptation that ADHD brains struggle to resist. Focus music (especially Brain.fm) provides the right level of stimulation without distraction. Gamified tools like Forest provide dopamine rewards for staying focused. Pomodoro timers break work into manageable chunks. However, avoid tools that are too strict (like Cold Turkey)—they can create anxiety and backfire. Start with Forest, Brain.fm, or gentle blockers like StayFocusd. Always combine focus tools with regular breaks (like DeskBreak provides).
Focus tools help you concentrate, but they can also encourage overwork if you're not careful. To prevent burnout: (1) Always schedule breaks—use DeskBreak or tools with built-in break reminders like Serene, (2) Don't block breaks—allow yourself to access relaxing content during rest periods, (3) Set daily limits—don't do more than 4-6 hours of deep focus work per day, (4) Use timers—set an end time for your work day and respect it, (5) Track wellness—pay attention to your energy levels and mental health, not just productivity.
Focus on Work, But Don't Forget Wellness
Focus tools help you concentrate—but they can't remind you to take breaks. DeskBreak works alongside your favorite focus tools to ensure you're productive AND healthy.
Last Updated: January 2025 • We regularly review and update our recommendations to ensure accuracy.