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Screenwage vs one sec
one sec puts a short pause, such as a breathing exercise, in front of distracting apps, and you then choose whether to continue. Screenwage is a lock rather than a pause: apps open only when you spend time you earned by focusing. one sec suits people who mainly need a nudge; Screenwage suits people who open the app anyway.
Updated
The main difference
one sec works on friction. On iPhone it is set up with a Shortcuts automation, so opening a chosen app first shows its intervention, and after the pause you can go on to the app. Many people find that the pause alone is enough to change the habit.
Screenwage works on exchange. A locked app shows the Screenwage lock screen and stays closed until you spend grains, which only focus earns. Waiting out a pause does not open it.
Side by side
| Screenwage | one sec | |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Lock until earned | Pause, then your choice |
| iPhone setup | Screen Time permission and Apple’s app picker | A Shortcuts automation per app |
| Can you open the app right away? | Only with grains, an earned break or by turning blocking off | Yes, after the pause |
| Rewards for focus | Yes: grains, streaks and an hourglass | Not the focus of the app |
| Study mode | Yes: Quiz mode | Not a core feature |
Which should you choose?
Pick one sec if you want to keep full access but break the autopilot. Pick Screenwage if you have tried pauses and limits and still find yourself scrolling, or if you want the time you spend on your phone to follow time you spent on something that matters.
Facts about other apps were checked against their own App Store listings, websites and help pages in October 2026. Apps change, so check theirs before you decide.