Best Screen Time Devices in 2025: A Buying Guide for iPhone Users
Looking for a physical screen time device? Here's how to choose—including what actually matters (bypass difficulty, cost model) and what doesn't (most "features").
Key takeaways
- Apptoken, Brick, Bloom, and Blok all use the same core mechanism: NFC tap to block/unblock apps.
- Bypass difficulty: Can you override it in 10 seconds?
- Selective vs total blocking: Do you need essentials (calls, maps, banking)?
- Cost model: One-time vs subscription.
- Portability: Does it work outside your home?
What screen time devices actually do
These devices add physical friction between you and your distracting apps. The idea is simple: if you have to do something in the real world before you can scroll, you're more likely to catch yourself and decide not to.
This works because willpower-based approaches (app limits, good intentions) fail at the moment of temptation. Physical friction works because it doesn't require willpower—it requires effort.
If you've tried Screen Time limits and kept overriding them, a physical device might be what finally changes the pattern.
What actually matters when choosing
Most product comparisons obsess over features. For Screen Time reduction, only a few things actually predict whether it'll work:
- Bypass difficulty: Can you override it in 10 seconds? If yes, it won't work when you're tired. The best devices make bypassing inconvenient enough that you think twice
- Selective vs total blocking: Do you need essentials (calls, maps, banking)? Most people do. Choose a device that blocks scroll apps while keeping essentials available
- Cost model: One-time vs subscription. Subscriptions create recurring cost, which adds up and can reduce long-term adherence. One-time purchases are simpler
- Portability: Does it work outside your home? If you also scroll at work or on the go, you need something that travels with you
Current options in 2025 (quick overview)
The main physical friction devices as of late 2025. Note: Apptoken, Brick, Bloom, and Blok all use NFC tap technology and are all one-time purchases (except Unpluq):
- Apptoken (€29.90 + €15 shipping, or €54.90 for 2-pack with free shipping): NFC token, no subscription, ships from Finland
- Brick ($59 one-time, sometimes on sale): NFC device, no subscription, ships from US. 5 emergency unlocks. Most established player
- Bloom ($31-39 one-time): Stainless steel NFC card, no subscription, ships from US. 3 emergency exits (+1/month). Nicest design
- Blok ($29-39 one-time): NFC device, no subscription, ships from US. iOS only currently. Budget-friendly option
- Unpluq ($100-130/year subscription): NFC tag with annual subscription. Best for families managing multiple devices
- Kitchen Safe lockbox ($116-130): Locks entire phone away on a timer. Different use case—complete separation, not selective blocking
They all work similarly
Apptoken, Brick, Bloom, and Blok all use the same core mechanism: NFC tap to block/unblock apps. The main differences are pricing, shipping location, and app features. All have recovery options if you lose your device.
When you don't need a device (yet)
Physical friction devices are for people who've genuinely tried other approaches. If you haven't tried the basics yet, start there:
- Have you turned off notifications for your scroll apps? If no, do that first. It's free and often helps significantly
- Have you removed scroll apps from your home screen? If no, try that for a week
- Have you genuinely tried using Screen Time limits? Some people can make them work. Give it an honest 2-week attempt
- Have you tried charging your phone in another room at night? If your problem is mainly late-night scrolling, this might be enough
What to realistically expect
A physical friction device is not magic. It's a tool. Here's what you should expect:
- It reduces impulsive scrolling, not intentional use. You can still use your scroll apps—you just have to do something to access them first
- Results show up in about a week if you're using it right. If your Screen Time hasn't improved after a week, something's wrong with your setup (usually: token is too accessible)
- You'll still have some bad days. The goal is pattern change, not perfection. A 60-70% reduction in unwanted scrolling is a huge win
- It's most effective combined with other changes: phone charging location, morning routine, notification settings. The device is one layer of friction, not the whole system
Want lower iPhone Screen Time without willpower battles?
Apptoken adds a real-world pause before distracting apps—so you don’t have to win the same decision 50 times a day.
FAQ
Which device is "best"?
They're all very similar—same NFC mechanism, all one-time purchases (except Unpluq). For EU buyers, Apptoken ships from Finland with no customs hassle. For US buyers, Brick is most established. If you want the strictest blocking with no emergency bypass, Apptoken. If you might need occasional emergency access, Brick or Bloom. If you're on a budget, Blok at $29.
What if I buy one and it doesn't work for me?
Most products have return policies. Apptoken offers 30-day returns. The key is to use it properly for at least a week before deciding—that means keeping the token genuinely separate from your phone, not in your pocket.
Is it worth spending money on this?
Run the math on your own time. If you're spending 2 hours/day on unwanted scrolling, that's 60+ hours/month. Reclaiming even a third of that has value—for productivity, sleep, mental health. Compare the cost of a device to what your time is worth.
Keep reading
Will Apptoken work with your iPhone and case? Here's everything about NFC compatibility, cases, MagSafe, and troubleshooting—based on actual testing.
Deciding between selective app blocking and locking your phone away entirely? Here's how to choose based on your actual needs—not marketing.