Hardcore Focus vs Opal (2026)
Opal is a polished screen-time dashboard. Hardcore Focus is an iPhone focus session plus a native Screen Time shield, with no account. Price, bypass, privacy.
Short answer: Pick Opal if you want a lifestyle screen-time dashboard on iPhone and Android and will pay ~$99.99/year for Deep Focus. Pick Hardcore Focus if you want timed focus sessions, habits, no account, and native Screen Time blocking ($3.99/wk, $8.99/mo, or $49.99/yr).
Quick comparison
| Hardcore Focus | Opal | |
|---|---|---|
| How it blocks | Apple Screen Time API | Apple Screen Time API |
| Strictness | High — No Bypass or 15-min unlock | Medium; Deep Focus is paywalled |
| Account | None | Yes |
| Platforms | iPhone, Apple Watch (iPad runs it) | iOS, Android (Opal also markets desktop) |
| Price (USD, Aug 2026) | $3.99/wk · $8.99/mo · $49.99/yr | Free tier · Pro ~$99.99/yr |
Prices change. Confirm on the App Store.
Is Opal or Hardcore Focus stricter?
Opal’s hardest mode is Deep Focus, behind Pro. Hardcore Focus puts the hard part in the session: No Bypass or a 15-minute timed unlock. Neither app can stop Settings → Screen Time if you revoke permission. Can you bypass iPhone app blockers?
Which is more private?
Hardcore Focus has no account and no backend. Data stays on-device and in your iCloud. Opal is a full product with an account and a broader analytics surface. If “no sign-up” is the requirement, Hardcore Focus wins by construction.
Price
Opal Pro is about $99.99/year. Hardcore Focus annual is $49.99 with a 7-day trial. Hardcore Focus has no free tier — it is a hard paywall. Opal is easier to try at $0 and more expensive if you want the strict mode.
Who should pick which
- Screen-time scores, Android, a polished dashboard: Opal.
- This session, this goal, apps gone, no account: Hardcore Focus.
Related: 7 Opal alternatives, best iPhone app blockers.