# SimpliFocus vs Focal

The clearest difference is update cadence: Focal at every 2 months against SimpliFocus's every 9 months. Focal also leads on iOS requirement (16.2 vs 18.0). SimpliFocus's advantage is ratings volume (3 vs 1). On price, rating, review sentiment and ads there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

On the App Store both sit at effectively the same score — 5.0 for SimpliFocus against 5.0 for Focal. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 3 and 1 respectively. Written reviews split almost evenly too, at 100% and 100% positive.

SimpliFocus ships an update every 9 months, Focal every 2 months. The most recent releases landed on September 11, 2026 and June 26, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | SimpliFocus | Focal |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | [5.0 (3 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/simplifocus/id6448771858/reviews) | [5.0 (1 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/focal-focus-timer/id6450650771/reviews) |
| Number of ratings | **3** | 1 |
| Positive reviews | 100.0% of reviews | 100.0% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | Every 9 months | **Every 2 months** |
| Monetization | Free | Free |
| Size | 37 MB | 2 MB |
| Requires iOS | 18.0 | **16.2** |
| Devices | **iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch** | iPhone, iPad |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Josh Wood](https://appshunter.io/developer/1457479625) | [Jakob Vogt](https://appshunter.io/developer/1694217961) |

## What reviewers say

### SimpliFocus

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/simplifocus/id6448771858)

This app offers a distraction-free environment to boost productivity. It features a minimalist timer and session tracking, allowing users to focus on tasks without clutter or complex interfaces. Designed for simplicity, it helps users achieve deep work and accomplish their goals.

**Highlights:** Instant focus with one tap, Minimalist Pomodoro-inspired timer, Session tracking with streaks, Lock screen and Live Activities support, Customizable session and break times, Ad-free and clutter-free interface

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Apple Watch app, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases:** none


### Focal

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/focal-focus-timer/id6450650771)

Enhance your concentration and manage tasks with timed work sessions and restorative breaks. This tool helps minimize distractions, encouraging deep work and mindful relaxation. Stay on track with customizable notifications and live updates on your home screen.

**Highlights:** Smart focus sessions based on research, Rejuvenating break timer, Customizable notifications, Live Activity on widgets, Distraction-free work slots

**In-app purchases:** none


## Frequently asked questions

### Is SimpliFocus free?

SimpliFocus is free to download, with no in-app purchases.

### Is Focal free?

Focal is free to download, with no in-app purchases.

### Which has better reviews, SimpliFocus or Focal?

SimpliFocus and Focal are both rated 5.0 out of 5 on the App Store, from 3 and 1 ratings respectively.

### Do SimpliFocus or Focal have ads?

Neither SimpliFocus nor Focal shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, SimpliFocus or Focal?

SimpliFocus ships an update every 9 months, and Focal every 2 months. Most recently, SimpliFocus was updated on September 11, 2026 and Focal on June 26, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*