FlockHopper vs Buford Train Watch
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
FlockHopper
This navigation app provides two route options: the fastest and an alternative that avoids known automated license plate reader (ALPR) camera locations. It displays camera locations on the map and offers turn-by-turn voice guidance with lane hints. The app prioritizes user privacy with no account, sign-up, ads, or data sales.
- Dual route options (fastest vs. ALPR avoidance)
- ALPR camera locations displayed on map
- Turn-by-turn voice guidance with lane hints
- Background navigation
- No account or sign-up required
- No ads or third-party trackers
- Self-hosted map tiles
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FlockHopper is a turn-by-turn navigation app with one extra trick: for every trip, it generates two routes — the fastest, and an alternative that routes around known automated license plate reader (ALPR) camera locations. You pick which one you want. Camera locations are rendered directly on the map, so you can see what you're driving past, not just route around it blindly. Navigation features include turn-by-turn voice guidance with lane hints, full-screen search with categories and points of interest, and background navigation that keeps directions running with the screen off. On the privacy side: no account, no sign-up, no ads, no third-party trackers, no data sales. Your location is used to compute a route and never stored or tied to an identity. Map tiles are self-hosted, so requests don't route through Google. The navigation core is open-source, built on Ferrostar. FlockHopper is built and maintained by one developer with no investors and no subscription. Everything is free. There's an optional Tip Jar if you want to support the project — it unlocks nothing, it's just a tip. Camera data is community-sourced and coverage varies by region — it won't always be complete or current. FlockHopper is a tool for reducing exposure to ALPR networks, not a guarantee. Follow traffic laws and drive safely. FlockHopper is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any commercial surveillance vendor. Camera data is community-sourced and publicly available. Privacy policy: https://dontgetflocked.com/privacy
Buford Train Watch
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Buford Train Watch helps drivers and commuters quickly see when train crossings are blocked in Buford so they can avoid unnecessary delays and traffic congestion. The app allows the community to report train activity and view active crossing blockages in real time, helping neighbors stay informed and choose alternate routes before getting stuck at the tracks. Features: • Community-submitted train crossing reports • Live active blockage updates • Quick and simple mobile interface • Designed specifically for Buford commuters and local traffic conditions • Helps reduce traffic backups and unnecessary rerouting Buford Train Watch was created to make local commuting simpler, faster, and less frustrating for everyone navigating Buford’s railroad crossings. More features and crossing coverage are coming soon.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Buford Train Watch at none against FlockHopper's 4. Buford Train Watch also leads on device support (3 vs 1) and iOS requirement (15.1 vs 17.0). FlockHopper's advantage is chart position (#33 vs unranked). On price and ads there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. FlockHopper sells 4 one-off in-app purchases. Buford Train Watch asks for nothing beyond the download.
| Parameter | FlockHopper | Buford Train Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.7 (139 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 84.4% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 139 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 2 months | — |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | — |
| Best chart rank | #33 — better | — |
| Devices | iPhone | iPhone, iPad, iPod — better |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | 15.1 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 39 MB | 27 MB |
| Age rating | 17+ | 4+ |
| Developer | OpenRoad Labs LLC | Jamie Osmanson |
In-app purchases
FlockHopper
- Lil' Hopper$4.99
- Certified FlockHopper$9.99
- Mother Flocker$24.99
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- Un-Flock-Able$49.99
Buford Train Watch
No in-app purchases



