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SlowDwn vs website blockers
Traditional distraction blockers lock you out of sites and apps. SlowDwn is a focus tool for digital wellbeing that uses intentional friction instead—so you build self-regulation without giving up access when you need it. Learn what digital friction means.
Friction vs blocking
Why a focus tool without hard blocks
Website blockers excel at enforcement. SlowDwn targets a different job: a golden window, then a calm pause so you notice the cue and choose—on browser and phone.
Approach
Blockers: Hard blocks—you cannot open listed sites or apps
SlowDwn: Intentional friction—a calm pause after a golden window of normal use
Control
Blockers: Coercive; bypass often requires workarounds or uninstalling
SlowDwn: You can still access sites when you choose—friction nudges, not bans
Habit change
Blockers: Short-term compliance; rebound when blocks lift
SlowDwn: Four-phase unlearning—friction fades as habits shift
Work vs doomscroll
Blockers: Often all-or-nothing — utility locked with the feed
SlowDwn: Golden window then calm friction — a dimmer, not a ban
Privacy
Blockers: Varies; many sync blocklists or usage to the cloud
SlowDwn: On-device friction; browsing content stays on your device
Best for
Blockers: Crisis focus, strict deadlines, or when you want zero access
SlowDwn: Digital wellbeing and focus without locking yourself out
When to use a blocker vs intentional friction
If you need absolute enforcement for a deadline—no exceptions—a website blocker with locked mode may be the right tool. If you want digital wellbeing that respects autonomy and reduces autopilot scrolling over months, friction fits better than force.
SlowDwn applies friction on-device across Chrome and mobile beta, and never uploads your browsing content. It is built for knowledge workers, ADHD and neurodivergent professionals, and digital minimalists who want a calmer feed without another lock screen to fight.
Read the FAQ for how the four unlearning phases work, or return to the homepage.
No commitment
Ready for a calmer feed—on browser and phone?
Try the free Chrome extension with no commitment. Sign up for 3 services, then add mobile beta when invited. Pro is $9/mo or $99/yr.