I've tried every productivity tool. RescueTime, Focusmate, Deep Focus, Forest, Freedom — all of them.
They all claim to help you focus. But they solve completely different problems.
What it does: Monitors everything you do on your computer and shows you reports.
Best for: People who don't know where their time goes.
Where it fails: Tracking doesn't stop the behavior. Seeing that you spent 3 hours on Reddit doesn't make you stop using Reddit.
What it does: Pairs you with a stranger for 50-minute video co-working sessions.
Best for: People who need external accountability to start working.
Where it fails: Scheduling friction. You have to book sessions in advance, show up on time, and be on camera. Great when it works, exhausting when it doesn't.
What it does: Blocks apps and websites, plans sessions, auto-activates schedules.
Best for: People who know what to work on but can't stay focused.
Where it wins: No scheduling. No tracking. Just blocks distractions and lets you work. Session Planner builds routines. Weekly Scheduler runs automatically.
Where it falls short: No mobile app yet.
If you don't know where your time goes, start with RescueTime.
If you need someone watching to stay accountable, try Focusmate.
If you know what to do but keep getting distracted, use Deep Focus.
Most people need the third one. You don't need tracking or accountability. You need fewer distractions and better structure.
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