Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

SelfControl VS Smart Objects

Compare SelfControl VS Smart Objects and see what are their differences

SelfControl logo 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.

Smart Objects logo Smart Objects

A real life signage mockup library
  • SelfControl Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-06-19
  • Smart Objects Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-24

SelfControl features and specs

  • Effective Website Blocking
    SelfControl blocks access to distracting websites based on a customizable blocklist, helping users stay focused.
  • Timer Functionality
    Users can set a timer for how long they want websites to remain blocked, ensuring focused work periods without distraction.
  • Free to Use
    SelfControl is open-source and free to download and use, making it accessible to anyone without financial barriers.
  • Easy to Use
    The interface is straightforward and user-friendly, allowing users to quickly set their preferences and get started.

Possible disadvantages of SelfControl

  • Mac-Only
    SelfControl is only available for macOS, excluding Windows and Linux users from using the application.
  • No Undo Option
    Once the block period is set and started, it cannot be undone even by restarting the computer, which could be an issue if access to blocked sites is needed unexpectedly.
  • Limited Feature Set
    The app primarily focuses on website blocking, lacking additional productivity tools or features like app blocking or usage analytics.
  • No Scheduled Blocking
    SelfControl does not offer the ability to schedule block sessions in advance, meaning users must manually start each session.

Smart Objects features and specs

  • Scalability
    Smart Objects can be easily scaled across different hardware and software platforms, allowing users to handle large volumes of data and processes efficiently.
  • Interoperability
    Designed to work seamlessly with various systems and devices, Smart Objects facilitate smooth communication and integration across different platforms.
  • Automation
    They enable automated processes and workflows, reducing the need for manual intervention and increasing overall efficiency.
  • Real-time Data Processing
    Smart Objects can process data in real-time, providing timely and accurate information for decision-making.

Possible disadvantages of Smart Objects

  • Complexity
    Implementing Smart Objects can add complexity to systems, requiring specialized knowledge and expertise to manage effectively.
  • Cost
    The development and deployment of Smart Objects can be costly, considering the technology and infrastructure required.
  • Security Risks
    With increased connectivity and data exchange, Smart Objects can present additional security vulnerabilities if not properly safeguarded.
  • Privacy Concerns
    The data collected and processed by Smart Objects may raise privacy issues, necessitating stringent data protection measures.

Analysis of SelfControl

Overall verdict

  • Overall, SelfControl is a highly recommended tool for individuals looking to enhance their productivity by minimizing digital distractions. Its open-source nature and no-nonsense approach make it a popular choice among students, freelancers, and professionals alike.

Why this product is good

  • SelfControl is considered a good application because it effectively blocks distracting websites, helping users focus on their tasks without getting sidetracked by online distractions. It's simple to use, efficient, and highly customizable, allowing users to specify which sites to block and for how long, ensuring a tailored productivity experience.

Recommended for

    SelfControl is ideal for students who need to concentrate on studying, remote workers who want to avoid procrastination, freelancers who require discipline in managing their time, and anyone who needs a simple solution to reduce digital distractions during focused work periods.

Analysis of Smart Objects

Overall verdict

  • I don't have verified, up-to-date information about a specific company called 'Smart Objects' at smartobjects.co, so I can't confidently confirm its legitimacy, quality, or reputation. Before trusting or purchasing from this site, you should independently verify it.

Why this product is good

  • I don't have reliable data on this specific domain to assess product quality, customer service, or business legitimacy
  • Company names like 'Smart Objects' are generic and could refer to multiple unrelated businesses, making it hard to confirm which one you're asking about
  • Domains can change ownership, business models, or shut down, so any older information could be outdated or inaccurate
  • Without verified reviews, trust signals (SSL, business registration, contact info), or third-party ratings, no fair assessment can be made

Recommended for

  • Anyone considering this site should first check independent reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, BBB, or Reddit
  • Verify the company's contact information, physical address, and business registration before purchasing
  • Look for secure payment options and clear return/refund policies on the site itself
  • Consider reaching out to their customer support with questions before committing to a purchase

SelfControl videos

How to block websites that distract you ? Selfcontrol [Mac App review and tutorial]

More videos:

  • Review - SelfControl Review - Block distracting websites

Smart Objects videos

Photoshop SMART OBJECTS explained using 7 HOT TIPS

More videos:

  • Tutorial - Smart Objects in Photoshop: Why you should use them & how to edit smart objects in Photoshop 2021
  • Review - Embedded Layers explained - Affinity Photo // Smart Layers, Smart Objects

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to SelfControl and Smart Objects)
Time Tracking
100 100%
0% 0
Design
0 0%
100% 100
Time Management
100 100%
0% 0
Internet Marketing
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, SelfControl seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 79 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.

SelfControl mentions (79)

  • Oregon School Cell Phone Ban: 'Engaged Students, Joyful Teachers'
    A combination of https://selfcontrolapp.com/ and Hammerspoon automation and you can lock yourself out of pretty much everything. - Source: Hacker News / 4 months ago
  • Kiki โ€“ The accountability monster for people who are easily distracted
    Happy to see it still exists, and free https://selfcontrolapp.com/. - Source: Hacker News / 5 months ago
  • How do you fight YouTube addiction and procrastination? I'm struggling with it
    I have found that a useful method for getting distractions off my work laptop has been https://selfcontrolapp.com/ (if you're on mac). - Source: Hacker News / 11 months ago
  • Using an $8 smart outlet to avoid brainrot
    Pro tip for macos/ios folks: - Macos: Install https://selfcontrolapp.com/, add every website and their alternatives you know, set it to 24 hours. Really hard to bypass this even if you know networking stuff - iOS: Enable downtime 24/7 ask someone else to set the password. I'm down to about 35 minutes a day of mobile usage, and laptop usage is only work related things. You really need two or three days to clear... - Source: Hacker News / about 1 year ago
  • My 30-Year Quitting Addiction
    There is a free and open source app called SelfControl for macOS. It allows one to block access to any site one adds to the list in the app for the amount of time the user chooses. Attempt to use multiple browsers, restarting one's machine, deleting the app, etc. won't get around the block either. It's been super helpful for me, so I thought I'd just throw it out there. https://selfcontrolapp.com. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
View more

Smart Objects mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Smart Objects yet. Tracking of Smart Objects recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing SelfControl and Smart Objects, 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!

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

Focus App - New Tab page that gives you a moment of calm and inspires you to be more productive.

FocusMe - The website blocker you can't cheat

Forest App - Forest is an app that helps you stay focused on the important things in life.

LeechBlock - LeechBlock is an extension for Firefox and Chrome that allows users to block time-wasting sites.