How does HourTrue compare with Opal?
HourTrue combines a realistic day plan with optional app blocking during work blocks. Opal centers on focus and screen-time boundaries, including scheduled blocking sessions, and offers broader platform coverage.
| Feature | HourTrue | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Planning | Time blocks with set times or flexible windows; renegotiate a running block. | Scheduled focus/blocking sessions; recurring sessions available with Pro. |
| App blocking | Optional shielding of selected apps during explicitly locked blocks. | Blocks selected apps during sessions. |
| Time estimates | Exchange rates adjust from finished blocks; deep work starts at 1.35×. | No. Opal blocks apps and runs focus sessions but does not learn how long your tasks take. |
| Account required | No HourTrue account required. | Free tier; Opal asks you to create an account (email, phone or Sign in with Apple) during setup. |
| Platforms | iPhone, iOS 17 or later. | iOS, Android, and Mac, as listed on Opal’s pricing page. |
| Price | Free to try; optional HourTrue Pro subscription. Launch pricing not yet announced. | Free plan. Pro: $99.99/year (shown as $8.29/month billed annually), $19.99/month, or $399 lifetime on the official pricing page. Check current availability and regional pricing. |
How HourTrue handles this
HourTrue suits someone who wants tasks, honest extra time, and optional blocking in one iPhone day plan, without an HourTrue account.
Opal may suit you better if your main priority is dedicated blocking sessions or you want its listed Android or Mac options. This is a difference in emphasis, not a claim that one app is best for everyone.
Questions
- Do both products block apps?
- Yes. HourTrue shields selected apps during explicitly locked blocks; Opal offers app-blocking sessions.
- Which one is better for a realistic task schedule?
- HourTrue specifically combines time blocks with exchange rates that adjust from finished work. Opal’s cited pages focus on blocking sessions.
- Is Opal free?
- Opal lists a free plan and paid Pro options. Its official pricing page lists $99.99/year, $19.99/month, and a $399 lifetime option; check current and regional availability.