Focus timer · Comparison
IdleMac vs Forest
Forest gamifies focus by growing a virtual tree that dies if you leave your phone. IdleMac is the Mac equivalent — except instead of a tree, your computer screams at you.
IdleMac
$9 one-time
IdleMac is for Mac users. Forest has a Mac version, but it's a timer you start. IdleMac works passively in the background forever.
Forest
$3.99 one-time (mobile), subscription on desktop
Forest is for phone addicts — you plant a tree, it dies if you switch apps.
Feature comparison
| Feature | IdleMac | Forest |
|---|---|---|
| Primary platform | macOS menu bar | iOS / Android |
| Always-on background | Yes | No, session-based |
| Gamification | No | Trees, rewards, virtual forest |
| Audio alert on drift | Yes, 10 voices | Tree dies silently |
| Requires starting a session | No | Yes |
| Works offline | Yes | Mostly |
Where IdleMac wins
- +Zero-setup passive mode — always watching
- +No session to start or forget
- +Native Mac menu bar, not an Electron wrapper
Where Forest wins
- +Fun gamified loop
- +Strong mobile-first experience
- +Social features
Which one should you pick?
Pick IdleMac if…
- Your distractions happen on your Mac, not your phone
- You want passive, always-on monitoring
- You prefer friction (a loud voice) over rewards (a cute tree)
Pick Forest if…
- You get distracted on your phone, not your laptop
- You respond to rewards better than punishments
- You like sharing progress with friends
FAQ
Can I use both?
Absolutely. Use Forest on your phone and IdleMac on your Mac. They cover different distraction surfaces.