Cold Turkey Blocker review
A mature desktop blocker with hard-to-bypass controls, but no mobile or Linux support.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Cold Turkey Blocker is a Windows and macOS desktop application for restricting distracting websites, applications, games, searches, and computer access. It suits desktop users who want more control than a simple browser blocker, particularly when blocks need to run on schedules or resist quick disabling. Website exceptions, allowlists, usage statistics, and browser extensions support more selective workflows, while computer lock, logoff, and shutdown blocks extend its reach beyond individual sites.
The published plans divide the product into a capable free tier and a broader Pro tier. Blocker Free includes website blocking, website exceptions, timed blocks, and statistics. Blocker Pro adds application blocking, scheduled blocks, an application password, all locking features, custom user selection, and breaks and allowances. The product also offers a 7-day free trial, and the vendor describes Pro as lifetime access. This structure makes the free edition a practical starting point for website-focused restrictions, while Pro is the relevant choice for users who need applications, recurring schedules, or stronger controls.
Its standout strength is the range of ways to make a block difficult to bypass: locked sessions, password protection, uninstall prevention, recurring weekly schedules, and command-line management. That breadth makes Cold Turkey Blocker a strong fit for focused desktop routines and stricter self-imposed limits. The tradeoff is its narrow device coverage: mobile devices and Linux are not supported, so it is not suited to people who need one distraction-blocking system across desktop and mobile. Choose it for hard-to-bypass Windows or macOS controls; choose an alternative if mobile coverage is essential.
Cold Turkey Blocker pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Blocks websites, applications, games, searches, and computer access
- Supports recurring schedules, timed blocks, allowances, and exceptions
- Locked blocks can prevent disabling or uninstalling
- Where it doesn't
- No mobile apps or Linux support
- Application blocking and locking features require Blocker Pro
- Browser extensions are limited to supported browsers
Cold Turkey Blocker fact sheet, pricing and score →
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