# Recode vs Deepwell

The clearest difference is rating: Deepwell at 5.0 against Recode's 4.2. Deepwell also leads on in-app purchases (none vs 2). On price, ratings volume, update cadence and ads there is nothing between them.

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

Deepwell holds the better App Store score, 5.0 against 4.2. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 5 and 3 respectively.

Recode ships an update weekly, Deepwell every 5 days. The most recent releases landed on October 5, 2026 and October 11, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Recode | Deepwell |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | [4.2 (5 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/recode-screen-time-control/id6752352978/reviews) | **[5.0 (3 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/deepwell-focus-and-flow/id6782529013/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | **5** | 3 |
| Positive reviews | 66.7% of reviews | — |
| In-app purchases | Yes | **No** |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | Weekly | **Every 5 days** |
| Monetization | Freemium | **Free** |
| Size | 3 MB | 12 MB |
| Requires iOS | 17.6 | **17.0** |
| Devices | iPhone | **iPhone, iPad** |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Alexander Hartigan](https://appshunter.io/developer/1839013984) | [Advait Namboodiri](https://appshunter.io/developer/6782529015) |

## 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 |


### Deepwell

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/deepwell-focus-and-flow/id6782529013)

This app provides a dedicated space for uninterrupted deep work sessions of one to four hours. It tracks your focused time, identifies your peak work periods, and offers a journal of your activities. A monthly letter summarizes your work habits and suggests intentions for the future.

**Highlights:** Uninterrupted deep work blocks, Focus time tracking and journaling, Rhythm map for peak work times, Monthly work reflection letters, Siri and widget integration, Lock Screen and Dynamic Island support, Apple Health integration

**In-app purchases:** none


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Recode free?

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

### Is Deepwell free?

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

### Which has better reviews, Recode or Deepwell?

Deepwell is rated higher. Recode averages 4.2 out of 5 from 5 ratings, while Deepwell averages 5.0 from 3 ratings.

### Do Recode or Deepwell have ads?

Neither Recode nor Deepwell shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, Recode or Deepwell?

Recode ships an update weekly, and Deepwell every 5 days. Most recently, Recode was updated on October 5, 2026 and Deepwell on October 11, 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.*