GritMode vs Squirrel
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
GritMode
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Stop doomscrolling before it starts. GritMode is an action-based app blocker that helps you earn access to distracting apps with quick exercise. When you want to scroll, complete a short set first. GritMode counts your reps in real time with on-device AI and turns your effort into screen time. Move first. Scroll later. Instead of deleting your social apps or relying only on willpower, GritMode adds friction at the exact moment of impulse. You still choose when to use your apps — but access is earned, not automatic. What you can do with GritMode: Block distracting apps Earn screen time with exercise Unlock apps after completing reps Use push-ups, squats, planks, crunches, jumps, and more Count reps in real time with on-device AI Track earned minutes and available balance Build a simple discipline loop for social media Built for people who: Keep opening apps automatically Want less doomscrolling Need more focus for work or study Want to reduce social media distractions Prefer action over guilt, reminders, or motivation hacks Want a stronger system for self-control GritMode is not just another timer. It is action-based blocking: no effort, no scroll. Download GritMode and earn your access. Terms of Use: https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/
Squirrel
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Your best ideas vanish the second you reach for a notes app. Squirrel catches every thought - just talk, tap, done. The second brain finally built for ADHD. Your brain isn't broken. Regular to-do apps just weren't built for it - they assume perfect focus, flawless memory, and a sense of time you don't have. Squirrel works WITH your brain instead of shaming it. Made by an ADHD brain, for ADHD brains. CAPTURE EVERYTHING (before it's gone) Brain dump in a tap - text or voice, like texting yourself Voice notes with instant transcription - no typing, no losing the thought Turn any thought into a to-do - your junk drawer becomes your plan NEVER FORGET (out of sight, out of mind - solved) Key dates become to-dos automatically - bills, birthdays, appointments land on your list the day they're due Reminders that actually reach you - and sync to Apple Calendar Squirrel buries the date and digs it up for you - so you don't have to remember SEE YOUR TIME (built for time blindness) The day in four simple quarters, with a countdown you can win A focus timer that quiets the other 99 tabs - one task, just start Body-doubling focus mode that keeps you company while you work KEEP MOMENTUM (gently) Track habits your way - tap to mark, glance to know Streaks and wins that celebrate you - never guilt you See your day fill up, one small done at a time MADE FOR YOU IF… • Your thoughts disappear before you can write them down • You're somehow always late, even when you "left on time" • Your to-do list just gets longer and you never get THROUGH it • You forget appointments even when you genuinely care • Normal productivity apps make you feel like a failure Squirrel is your external memory - the place to put everything so your brain doesn't have to hold it. Your brain hoards. Squirrel remembers. Give your scattered brain somewhere to land. Free to start. — Squirrel is a focus and organization tool, not a medical device or a substitute for professional care. Questions or feedback? We read everything - reach us in the app.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Squirrel at none against GritMode's 3. GritMode's advantage is update cadence (weekly vs monthly). On price, ads, device support and iOS requirement 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. GritMode sells 3 in-app purchases, starting at $3.99 per 7 days. Squirrel asks for nothing beyond the download.
GritMode ships an update weekly, Squirrel monthly. The most recent releases landed on October 5, 2026 and October 14, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | GritMode | Squirrel |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Update frequency | Weekly — better | Monthly |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad — better | iPhone |
| Requires iOS | 17.6 | 17.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 34 MB | 12 MB |
| Age rating | 12+ | 12+ |
| Developer | Oleksandr Biriulin | Jaganathan Konar |
In-app purchases
GritMode
- GritMode Premium3 Days trial$3.997 Days
- GritMode Premium7 Days trial$9.991 Month
- GritMode Premium7 Days trial$79.991 Year
Squirrel
No in-app purchases









