Focuh vs Pomofocus: 2026 Comparison
Compare Focuh and Pomofocus for focus timing and productivity. Pomofocus is a free, browser-based Pomodoro timer. Focuh adds system-level blocking, task management, and a native macOS app — also for free.
What is Pomofocus?
Pomofocus is a free, browser-based Pomodoro timer. You open it in any browser, set your work and break intervals, and it counts down for you. It includes a basic to-do list for tracking tasks during your sessions and supports the classic Pomodoro cycle: 25 minutes of work, 5-minute short breaks, and a longer break after four rounds.
With over 5 million monthly visits, Pomofocus is one of the most popular focus tools on the web. Its appeal is simplicity — open a tab, start a timer, get to work.
What is Focuh?
Focuh is a free macOS app that combines website and app blocking with a focus timer, kanban-style task management, and Google Calendar sync. Built with Tauri, it uses macOS Accessibility APIs for system-level blocking during focus sessions.
Focuh was designed for people who need more than just a timer — it provides a complete workflow from planning tasks to executing focused work with enforced distraction blocking.
How does blocking compare?
This is the biggest difference. Pomofocus has no blocking at all. It's a timer in a browser tab, and nothing stops you from opening Twitter in the next tab over. Your willpower is the only barrier between you and distractions.
Focuh blocks websites and apps at the macOS system level. When you start a focus session, your blocked sites are inaccessible across every browser on your Mac. You can't just open a new tab to check social media — the sites simply won't load. For people who struggle with self-control during focus time, this enforcement makes a real difference.
| Feature | Focuh | Pomofocus |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | macOS native app | Web (any browser) |
| Website blocking | Yes, system-level | No |
| App blocking | Yes | No |
| Timer | Yes, flexible duration | Yes, Pomodoro cycle |
| Task management | Kanban board | Basic to-do list |
| Google Calendar sync | Yes | No |
| Price | Free | Free (premium $4.99/mo) |
| Offline support | Yes | No |
| Works on Windows/Linux | No | Yes (browser) |
| Mobile support | No | Yes (browser) |
How does task management compare?
Pomofocus includes a simple to-do list. You can add tasks, estimate how many Pomodoros each task will take, and check them off as you go. It's functional but basic — no drag-and-drop reordering, no date-based organization, no subtasks.
Focuh includes a kanban-style task board where you can organize tasks by date, drag them between days, break them into subtasks, and track time spent on each task during focus sessions. It's closer to a lightweight project management tool than a simple checklist.
Does Pomofocus work on more devices?
Yes, significantly. Pomofocus works anywhere you have a web browser — Mac, Windows, Linux, Chromebook, iPad, phone. It's the most accessible focus timer available because there's nothing to install.
Focuh is macOS-only. You need a Mac to use it, and there's no mobile or web version. If you work across multiple platforms or need a timer on your phone, Pomofocus is the more practical choice.
When should you choose Pomofocus over Focuh?
Choose Pomofocus if:
- You want a simple timer that works anywhere with a browser
- You use Windows, Linux, or primarily work on mobile
- You follow the strict Pomodoro technique and want enforced work/break cycles
- You don't need website blocking
- You value simplicity over features
Choose Focuh if:
- You work on a Mac and need distraction blocking during focus time
- You want task management integrated with your timer
- You want a native app that works offline
- You need Google Calendar sync to see your schedule alongside tasks
- You find yourself opening distracting websites even when you intend to focus
The bottom line
Pomofocus is the best free Pomodoro timer for its simplicity and accessibility. It works everywhere, requires no installation, and does the Pomodoro technique well. If you just need a countdown timer and have the discipline to stay on task, it's hard to beat.
Focuh is the better choice for Mac users who need enforcement alongside their timer. If you keep opening distracting sites during Pomodoro sessions, a timer alone isn't solving the problem. Focuh combines the timer with system-level blocking and a real task board, giving you structure and accountability that a browser tab can't provide.