Hardcore Focus vs Jomo (2026)
Jomo is a cheaper Screen Time blocker with a real Strict Mode. Hardcore Focus adds timed focus sessions and an on-device AI Gatekeeper. Price, platforms, bypass.
Short answer: Pick Jomo if you want Opal-like scheduled blocking at about a third of Opal’s price, with a Strict Mode that can freeze Settings, plus iPad and Mac. Pick Hardcore Focus if the job is a focus session with an on-device AI Gatekeeper and you do not want an account ($49.99/year vs Jomo’s $29.99/year).
Quick comparison
| Hardcore Focus | Jomo | |
|---|---|---|
| How it blocks | Screen Time API + Gatekeeper | Screen Time API + Strict Mode |
| Strictness | High — AI negotiation | High — can block Settings edits |
| Platforms | iPhone, Watch (iPad runs iPhone app) | iPhone, iPad, Mac |
| Account | None | Jomo account typical of the category |
| Price (USD, Aug 2026) | $3.99/wk · $8.99/mo · $49.99/yr | Free tier · $29.99/yr · $99.99 lifetime |
Strict Mode vs Gatekeeper
Jomo Strict Mode is a lock on the controls: no pauses, no edits, sometimes no Settings. Hardcore Focus Gatekeeper is a lock on the excuse: you can ask, but you have to win, and a grant is ≤15 minutes. Different failure modes. If your cheat is “I’ll just turn the rule off,” Jomo Strict may fit better. If your cheat is “I’ll unlock Instagram for a second,” Gatekeeper is the designed answer.
Neither beats a physical tag. See vs Brick.
Mac
Jomo has a Mac app. Hardcore Focus does not. If laptop blocking is required, Jomo or Freedom — not us.
Price
Jomo annual ($29.99) is cheaper than Hardcore Focus annual ($49.99). Jomo has a free tier; Hardcore Focus does not. You are paying Hardcore Focus for sessions + Gatekeeper + no account, not for a cheaper Opal clone.
Related: best iPhone app blockers, Opal alternatives.