Forest

Overview

Forest takes a unique approach to the focus problem: instead of just blocking distractions, it turns focus time into a game where you grow beautiful virtual trees. The longer you stay focused, the more your forest flourishes. Even better, the app partners with real tree-planting organizations.

How It Works

1. Plant a Seed: When you need to focus, plant a tree and set your timer
2. Stay Focused: Your tree grows while you work. Leave the app, and your tree dies
3. Grow Your Forest: Successful focus sessions add trees to your personal forest
4. Earn Rewards: Collect coins to unlock new tree species and even plant real trees

Key Features

Gamification Done Right

• 30+ tree species to unlock
• Achievements and milestones
• Daily, weekly, and monthly challenges
• Compete with friends

Real Impact

• Partnership with Trees for the Future
• Over 1 million real trees planted
• Use virtual coins to plant real trees
• Environmental awareness built-in

Flexibility

• Whitelist essential apps (calls, music)
• Different tree types for different activities
• Tags to categorize focus sessions
• Group planting with friends

Best Use Cases

Students

• Study sessions without phone distractions
• Pomodoro technique implementation
• Group study accountability
• Exam preparation focus

Remote Workers

• Deep work sessions
• Meeting focus (no phone checking)
• Break reminders
• Work-life boundaries

Personal Growth

• Meditation sessions
• Reading time
• Exercise focus
• Digital detox periods

Chrome Extension

The Chrome extension extends Forest’s functionality to your computer:

• Block distracting websites
• Sync with mobile app
• Grow trees while working on desktop
• Customizable blocklist

Pricing Value

At just $3.99, Forest offers exceptional value:

• No subscriptions or hidden costs
• All features included
• Lifetime updates
• Multi-device support (same OS)

Tips for Success

1. Start Small: Begin with 10-15 minute sessions
2. Be Realistic: Don’t set timers for longer than you can handle
3. Use Tags: Track what you’re focusing on
4. Join Challenges: Participate in community events
5. Plant Together: Use group planting for accountability

Forest vs Alternatives

vs Freedom

• Forest: Gamified, affordable, mobile-focused
• Freedom: More powerful blocking, expensive subscription

vs Be Focused

• Forest: Visual motivation, real tree planting
• Be Focused: Better task management, free

vs Pomodone

• Forest: Simpler, more fun, one-time purchase
• Pomodone: Integration-heavy, subscription-based

Verdict

Forest brilliantly solves a specific problem: phone addiction during focus time. Its gamification is genuinely motivating without being gimmicky, and the real tree-planting feature adds meaningful impact. For the price of a coffee, it’s one of the best focus investments you can make.