# Recode vs MCB Mainline

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: MCB Mainline at none against Recode's 2. MCB Mainline also leads on iOS requirement (15.6 vs 17.6). Recode's advantage is update cadence (weekly vs fortnightly). On price, ads and device support there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. Recode sells 2 in-app purchases, starting at $2.99 per month. MCB Mainline asks for nothing beyond the download.

Recode ships an update weekly, MCB Mainline fortnightly. The most recent releases landed on October 5, 2026 and September 30, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Recode | MCB Mainline |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | **[4.2 (5 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/recode-screen-time-control/id6752352978/reviews)** | — |
| Number of ratings | **5** | — |
| Positive reviews | 66.7% of reviews | — |
| In-app purchases | Yes | **No** |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | **Weekly** | Fortnightly |
| Monetization | Freemium | — |
| Size | 3 MB | 169 MB |
| Requires iOS | 17.6 | **15.6** |
| Devices | iPhone | **iPhone, iPod** |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Alexander Hartigan](https://appshunter.io/developer/1839013984) | [cove](https://appshunter.io/developer/932929798) |

## What reviewers say

### Recode

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/recode-screen-time-control/id6752352978)

This app helps you regain focus by physically preventing access to distracting applications. It requires scanning a QR or barcode to unlock apps, creating friction that discourages reflex checking and promotes productivity.

**Highlights:** Physical app blocking via QR/barcode scan, Accountability through intentional unlocking, Reduces reflex app checking, Promotes focus and productivity, Customizable app blocking schedules

**In-app purchases (2)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Pro Monthly | $2.99 | per month |
| Pro Yearly | $19.99 | per year |


### MCB Mainline

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mcb-mainline/id6758412201)

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Apple Wallet, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases:** none


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Recode free?

Recode is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is MCB Mainline free?

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

### Do Recode or MCB Mainline have ads?

Neither Recode nor MCB Mainline shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, Recode or MCB Mainline?

Recode ships an update weekly, and MCB Mainline fortnightly. Most recently, Recode was updated on October 5, 2026 and MCB Mainline on September 30, 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.*