Blok App Alternative: Free, Open Source iPhone App Blocker

By Ali | January 20, 2026

Last updated: February 16, 2026

Compare Blok's hardware-first setup with Foqos, which supports NFC and QR workflows with no subscription.

4.9/5 | 2200+ Reviews on App Store

Why Switch from Blok to Foqos?

Blok is an NFC-based app blocker that charges $59.99 for their hardware device. If you prefer a setup built around common tags or QR codes, Foqos can be a lower-cost option.

NFC tags are often low-cost when bought in bulk, and QR codes are free to print. That makes it possible to create physical friction without depending on proprietary hardware.

Blok vs Foqos: locked hardware or open setup?

Blok may work best if...

  • You prefer one dedicated branded NFC device.
  • You want a narrow feature set with fewer controls.
  • You do not mind replacing proprietary hardware if lost.

Foqos may work best if...

  • You want to run multiple low-cost tags in different rooms.
  • You want QR fallback when NFC is not convenient.
  • You want open source transparency and no subscription costs.

Foqos vs Blok: Feature Comparison

Feature Foqos Blok
Price 100% Free $59.99/device
Open Source Yes No
NFC Support Yes (any tag) Yes (their device only)
QR Code Support Yes (free) No
Timer + Physical Unlock Yes No
Habit Tracking Yes No
Smart Breaks Yes No
Live Activities Yes No
Website Blocking Yes Yes
Privacy (No Cloud Sync) Yes No

Comparison snapshot is based on publicly listed product details as of February 2026.

What You Get with Foqos (That Blok Doesn't Offer)

  • QR Code Blocking: Don't want to buy NFC tags? Print a QR code for free and use it to start/stop blocking sessions.
  • Timer-Based Blocking with Physical Unlock: Set a timer and require physical NFC/QR scan to end early. Blok doesn't offer this hybrid approach.
  • Habit Tracking: See your focus streaks and session history. Build better habits over time.
  • Smart Breaks: Take a quick break without ending your entire blocking session.
  • Live Activities: See your blocking status on your Lock Screen and Dynamic Island.
  • Mix & Match Strategies: Combine manual, NFC, QR, and timer-based blocking any way you want.
  • True Privacy: Open-source, no cloud sync, no tracking. Your data stays on your device.
  • Use Any NFC Tag: Blok requires their specific $59.99 device. Foqos works with any NFC tag that costs under $1.

The Real Cost of Blok vs Foqos

Blok Setup Cost: $59.99+

  • Blok device: $59.99
  • Additional devices for multiple locations: $59.99 each
  • Replacement if lost/broken: $59.99

Foqos Setup Cost: $0 - $5

  • Foqos app: Free
  • NFC tags (10-pack): ~$5 on Amazon
  • Or use QR codes: $0 (print for free)
  • Multiple locations: Just print more QR codes for free

How to Switch from Blok to Foqos

  1. Download Foqos - It's free on the App Store. No account needed.
  2. Get any NFC tag or print a QR code - Buy cheap NFC tags online (under $1 each), or print a free QR code from your computer.
  3. Create your blocking profiles - Set up profiles for work, study, bedtime, or whatever you need.
  4. Start blocking - Tap your NFC tag or scan your QR code to begin. Hide it somewhere inconvenient, and focus.

Need setup help? See our iOS blocking guide or visit support.

What Users Are Saying

"I was about to buy Blok for $60 when I found Foqos. It does everything Blok does plus more. The QR code feature is genius - I have codes everywhere now and it cost me nothing."

- App Store Review

"Love this app. The many options for how to enable/disable blocking modes is exactly what I was looking for. I have one NFC tag that I scan on the way into my home office on work days."

- rahuggins, App Store Review

Ready to save $59.99? Download Foqos free today.

Other Alternatives to Explore

Looking at other app blockers? Check out our comparisons: