Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

FocusMe VS Arc.dev

Compare FocusMe VS Arc.dev and see what are their differences

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FocusMe logo FocusMe

The website blocker you can't cheat

Arc.dev logo Arc.dev

Arc is the remote career platform helping developers build amazing careers from anywhere. Find thousands of top remote developer jobs online all in one place!
  • FocusMe FocusMe main window โ€” the Plans dashboard
    FocusMe main window โ€” the Plans dashboard //
    2026-04-14
  • FocusMe Adding websites to the blacklist
    Adding websites to the blacklist //
    2026-04-14
  • FocusMe A completed AI Coach report
    A completed AI Coach report //
    2026-04-14
  • FocusMe The Break Screen during an active break
    The Break Screen during an active break //
    2026-04-14
  • FocusMe Settings โ€” General tab
    Settings โ€” General tab //
    2026-04-14

FocusMe is the most powerful website and app blocker available. Unlike browser extensions that can be easily disabled, FocusMe blocks at the system level across all browsers.

Key features: - Enforced Mode โ€” the strongest bypass protection of any website blocker - AI Productivity Coach โ€” personalized daily/weekly reports with one-click plan recommendations - Enforced Screen Breaks โ€” full-screen overlay with skip protection and minimum break times - Flexible Time Limits โ€” set per-site daily budgets (e.g. 30 min of Reddit per day) - Launch Limits โ€” restrict how many times per day you can open distracting apps - Pomodoro Timer โ€” built-in work/break cycles with floating timer window - CLI Automation โ€” start, stop, and list plans from the command line - Plan Library โ€” community templates you can import with one click - Block YouTube Shorts & Facebook Reels without blocking the rest of the site - Pause Limits, Stop Delays, Random Character Challenges, Plan Hardening

Works on Windows 11/10/8/7, macOS, Linux, and Android. Browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Brave, Opera, and Vivaldi.

Trusted by 10,000+ users. Rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot with 800+ reviews. Free trial available.

  • Arc.dev Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-07

FocusMe

$ Details
paid Free Trial $6.95 / Monthly
Startup details
Country
United Kingdom
State
London
City
England
Founder(s)
Jon Rumens
Employees
50 - 99

FocusMe features and specs

  • Enforced Mode
    the strongest bypass protection of any website blocker
  • Flexible Scheduling
    Users can schedule focused work sessions and breaks with advanced customization options, which helps in maintaining a balanced work routine.
  • Pomodoro Time
    built-in work/break cycles with floating timer window
  • User Metrics and Reports
    FocusMe provides detailed reports and statistics on user activity, helping users to analyze and improve their productivity patterns.
  • Strong Security
    The software includes features like forced mode and password protection to prevent users from bypassing restrictions easily.

Possible disadvantages of FocusMe

  • Cost
    FocusMe is a paid service with subscription plans, which might be a barrier for some users who are looking for a free solution.
  • Learning Curve
    The wide array of features can be overwhelming for new users, requiring a learning period to fully understand and utilize the software effectively.
  • Potential Over-Restriction
    Intensive blocking settings might inadvertently hinder necessary tasks or access to websites and apps needed for work.
  • Mobile Limitations
    The functionality on mobile platforms may not be as powerful or seamless as on desktop versions, potentially limiting its usefulness for mobile-heavy users.
  • Occasional Software Bugs
    Some users may experience technical glitches or bugs, particularly after updates, which can temporarily disrupt productivity efforts.

Arc.dev features and specs

  • Quality Talent
    Arc.dev screens and vets developers, ensuring high-quality talent is available for hire.
  • Remote Focused
    The platform is designed specifically for remote work, which is increasingly relevant in today's job market.
  • Flexible Hiring
    Arc.dev offers flexible hiring options, including full-time, part-time, and contract roles.
  • Global Reach
    Employers have access to a global pool of developers, providing a broader range of skills and expertise.
  • Hiring Assistance
    Arc.dev provides dedicated hiring consultants to help match employers with the right developers.
  • Community and Resources
    Developers have access to a supportive community and resources to help them grow their careers.

Possible disadvantages of Arc.dev

  • Cost
    Hiring through Arc.dev can be more expensive than other platforms, given the quality and vetting process involved.
  • Niche Market
    The platform primarily caters to tech and development roles, which may not be suitable for companies looking for a wider range of skill sets.
  • Vetting Process Delay
    The thorough vetting process can sometimes lead to delays in hiring, which may not suit urgent hiring needs.
  • Geographical Constraints
    While remote work is emphasized, certain employers might face challenges with time zone differences.
  • Platform Fee
    Arc.dev charges a platform fee, which might be a barrier for startups or small businesses with limited budgets.
  • Limited User Control
    Employers might find the process less flexible compared to directly hiring through other platforms, due to the involvement of hiring consultants.

Analysis of FocusMe

Overall verdict

  • FocusMe is generally considered a good tool for those who need assistance with self-discipline and concentration. Its comprehensive feature set and flexible options make it a strong contender in the productivity software market.

Why this product is good

  • FocusMe is designed to enhance productivity by blocking distracting websites and apps, helping users maintain focus on their tasks. It offers features like scheduling, time tracking, and breaks management, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with maintaining concentration in the digital age.

Recommended for

  • Students looking to minimize online distractions while studying.
  • Remote workers needing to enhance their focus during work hours.
  • Individuals seeking to manage their screen time effectively.
  • Professionals aiming to increase productivity by structuring their work time.

FocusMe videos

Focusme Review

More videos:

  • Review - Hands On Review of the Distraction-Blocking Software FocusMe

Arc.dev videos

Remote Work For Developers | Why I Invested In Arc.Dev on Wefunder (YC Startup)

More videos:

  • Review - ARC.DEV (FKA CODEMENTORX) REVIEW: ALTERNATIVES AND COMPETITORS FOR 2020
  • Review - Arc 2.0 - The Easiest Way to Find Remote Developer Jobs | Arc.dev

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to FocusMe and Arc.dev)
Time Management
100 100%
0% 0
Remote Jobs
0 0%
100% 100
Time Tracking
100 100%
0% 0
Job Boards
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare FocusMe and Arc.dev

FocusMe Reviews

  1. Started using FocusMe six years ago. I rely on it heavily.

    I have been using FocusMe software on all my PCs and phones for over six years. I have a paid license. I would really like to commend the developers of FocusMe. As someone who spends more than 8 hours a day at a computer, it is easy to let it take over your life, even to the point where I found myself watching, chatting and posting even when I didn't particularly want to. I wanted to take control, and FocusMe was a really good solution. FocusMe differed from other products because it handled the entire scope of the problem: 1) lock out stuff from my kids, 2) lock out some of the same stuff from me, 3) not interfere with special internet use (like GitHub, or work related youtube), and 4) to give a whole range of solutions for partial lockout, by time, location, overall usage, multiple password schemes, etc. They do a really good job protecting the software from anyone who might trying to hack around it. There really isn't anything like it.

    ๐Ÿ Competitors: Freedom.to, Stay Focused, SelfControl
    ๐Ÿ‘ Pros:    Easy to use|Easy user interface|Strong feature set|Highly customizable|Detailed reports|Cost effective|Great customer support
    ๐Ÿ‘Ž Cons:    Configuration is repetative|Needs tweeking to get rules right|Limited trial version
  2. The Best Application for Managing Digital Distractions

    Wow! Where should I start? I've been constantly searching in these two years for finding a complete solution that could really help me manage my digital distractions and focus on my daily life routines, most applications are either not effective enough, so easy to circumvent or very resource-intensive, then I found FocusMe!

    1) It has everything I was searching for, most applications are not effective enough, some are just browser extensions, have a few options and not customizable enough, with FocusMe I can easily create very flexible plans to:

    a) Destroy bad habits and create good ones. For example block Internet at a certain time of night to help me sleep at a certain time each night. This has helped my insomnia a lot and my sleep times are getting regulated now.

    b) Block unnecessary and possible harmful contents completely. For example, it may be a personal choice but I choose to block online adult contents for most weekdays, which has helped my brain to regulate my dopamine system tremendously.

    c) Time limit other contents during work days, Contents that are useful but can also easily waste a lot of your daily time if not careful enough, like emails, news, social media...

    2) Most other applications can be circumvented easily, if you have a little computer knowledge, most of these applications are useless, but FocueMe! OMG! It goes to great lengths to make sure you stick to your plan, when you create and start a plan, you can't cheat it! You can even create punishment if you try to bypass your plan, to restrict your access more which can prevent any kind of future cheatings. It is evident that FocusMe creators really love what they do and really pay attention to details, which is what distinguishes this from most other similar applications.

    3) Some other applications are very resource-intensive, you can see in windows task manager that they swallow all of your computer resources or even slow down your web surfing/loading experiences which makes them useless, because no one wants to have a slower computer just to have an application to control his/her daily habits, but when I use FocusMe, there are no computer/web surfing slow downs and also the resource consumption is minimal which also makes this software a great choice.

    4) Last but not least, FocusMe has a superb support system, you never feel alone on your path to more success and focus, they are always there for you answering your questions and always updating the software to newer greater versions.

    Let me emphasize this point: I don't know how I could live without this application and I wished I had found it sooner! Those that are searching for applications to help them live a healthier life know what I mean if they read my explanations above. It took me two years to find you, FocusMe! I would give you 10 stars if I could!

    After all these years, I finally feel in control of my life and my time, Thank you.

  3. FocusMe review

    It just all works properly unlike other softwares. I am very happy because if I have minor troubles, customer support is there the same day to help me fix it. A lot of good locking systems that so far I haven't been able to cheat.

    ๐Ÿ‘ Pros:    Great customer support
    ๐Ÿ‘Ž Cons:    Nothing, so far

Arc.dev Reviews

Comparing Andela, Turing, Toptal, Micro1, Arc.dev, and Wajusoft
When comparing these platforms, several key features stand out. Andela and Turing provide access to a large talent pool of vetted developers. Toptal, Arc.dev and micro1 offer specialized expertise and agile development practices, respectively. Wajusoft excels in flexibility in team scaling and tailored solutions.
Top 10 Websites to Find Remote Jobs
Who Should Sign UpโญArc caters to a wide range of experience levels. Newbies can benefit from career guidance and skill-building resources, while experienced developers will find a curated selection of high-quality remote positions from top companies.
Best Freelancer.com Alternatives For Hiring Developers
Arc.dev uses a strict vetting process like other top-rated online marketplaces. It utilizes various assessment tools to ensure its freelancers are of the highest quality. Unlike Freelancer, where you can hire freelancers for the long and short term, Arc.dev focuses on helping companies hire full-time and long-term remote-working developers. The platform ensures all parties...
Forget LinkedIn: The Top 10 Remote Work Alternatives for Landing Your Dream Tech Job Remotely
Arc: Leveraging AI, Arc is a global remote jobs marketplace connecting companies with talented software developers.
Source: dev.to

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Arc.dev should be more popular than FocusMe. It has been mentiond 22 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

FocusMe mentions (11)

  • WFH Developers how do you fight major procrastination?
    I would probably be homeless if it wasn't for FocusMe. I use it to block all sites except sites I need for work. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Build/compile/package restore times KILL my productivity
    It's called FocusMe (https://focusme.com/). I came across some years ago when it was still a simple little app. You had to manually set it to block a site and enter in a time period. I had my daily working schedule that I use now set up and I wanted FocusMe to run on a schedule as well. He freaked out when I told him how I would use his app: killing the app via DOS at the end of a time period, renaming the... Source: over 3 years ago
  • Software for permanent blocking websites
    How about Forest - https://www.forestapp.cc/ or FocusMe - https://focusme.com/. Source: over 3 years ago
  • [lichess addiction] Safe my flat mate!!
    I agree with the other answers that it is not your responsibility. For people that would like an efficient blocker for themselves, I used FocusMe during my time at ETH which works well. Source: almost 4 years ago
  • App to track writing progress?
    I don't know of any specific app that does what you want but you can mix it up across platforms. I track all my writing time with Toggl Track's free plan and I use Google Sheets for word count. If you're looking for distraction blockers I'd recommend Forest for your web browser if you want something free, but if you're willing to pay for something more powerful I recommend Freedom or the even more restrictive... Source: almost 4 years ago
View more

Arc.dev mentions (22)

  • Top 7 Remote Job Boards for Software Engineers (No "Fake Remote" BS)
    Arc flips the traditional job search model. Itโ€™s an exclusive network primarily aimed at senior developers. - Source: dev.to / 3 months ago
  • Which Hiring Platforms Offer Risk-Free Trials for ReactJS Developers?
    Arc.dev offers companies both full-time and freelance recruiting options for qualified ReactJS engineers. They provide a two-week risk-free trial so businesses can evaluate the developer's abilities and suitability. Businesses can stop operating without incurring any costs if they are not happy. - Source: dev.to / over 1 year ago
  • Best Websites to Hire Remote Software Developers in USA
    Arc.dev Arc.dev specializes in connecting companies with remote developers, designers, and marketers. With a focus on quality, Arc.dev provides access to vetted candidates with domain expertise and English fluency. The platform's unique approach to candidate matching saves time and ensures you find the right fit quickly. - Source: dev.to / almost 2 years ago
  • Just Moved to Vienna
    Hallo Leute aus ร–sterreich! I just made my move to Wien, finally. I am offering my Software Engineering Consulting Services and/or Digital Product Management services to anyone who wants to launch an MVP in the digital space in a short manner, or join/lead a small team. Enterprise-grade stuff (I am ex-IBM CIO), no shady businesses, US entity. My profile: https://arc.dev/@arpad Before going into the Software space... - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
  • ๐Ÿ’ผ 50 Tips to Land a Remote Tech Job Based on My 45-Day Journey to 2 Offers
    To be honest, it's another rabbit hole. In my whole experience history with these job platforms, I can 100% backup G2i as I got a dream job there and Toptal, Lemon.io, Turing, and Arc.dev are fine but people have different opinions about them, sometimes they want to charge you a lot, sometimes there is a lack of jobs, etc. It's a thing to consider, but hear this out. - Source: dev.to / over 2 years ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing FocusMe and Arc.dev, you can also consider the following products

Cold Turkey - Cold Turkey is a free productivity program that you can use to temporarily block distractions so that you can get your work done!

Flexiple - Flexiple helps companies work with top tech talent within 48 hours to 7 days. Our talent are handpicked through a rigorous screening process and are alumni from top tech companies such as Amazon, Adobe, Microsoft, amongst others.

Freedom.to - Freedom is a productivity hack that lets you block apps, websites or the entire Internet on iPhones, iPads, Windows and Mac computers.

Toptal - Hire the Top 3% of Freelance Talentยฎ. Toptal is an exclusive network of the top freelance software developers, designers, finance experts, product managers, and project managers in the world.

SelfControl - V2 updates! - Custom time interval for distraction free mode - Ability to turn off ' always on' mode - Improved UI -- Self Control -- A simple app to keep you focused online by blocking sites that you spend way too much time on.

Upwork - Forget the old rules. You can have the best people. Right now. Right here.