Comparison
StretchLock vs One Sec
StretchLock and One Sec share the same insight: a tiny pause before you open an app can break the scrolling reflex. The difference is what you do in that pause — a breath, or a stretch. Here's how they compare.
How they compare
| Feature | StretchLock | One Sec |
|---|---|---|
| Core idea | A stretch before distracting apps open | A breath and pause before distracting apps open |
| Platforms | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| The interruption | A quick guided stretch | A deep breath and a short wait |
| Targets physical health | Yes — posture and mobility | Partly — calming, but not physical |
| Approach | Movement-based friction | Mindfulness-based friction |
| Price | Free to start | Freemium (paid for full features) |
What One Sec is
One Sec popularised the idea of adding intentional friction before distracting apps: when you try to open one, it makes you take a deep breath and wait a second, then asks if you still want to continue. It's well designed, integrates deeply with iOS Shortcuts, and has research-backed roots in reducing impulsive app use.
Where StretchLock stands out
StretchLock shares One Sec's friction philosophy but changes the action in the pause from a breath to a quick stretch. That keeps the impulse-breaking benefit while also addressing the stiff neck, rounded shoulders, and tight hips that come from hours on a screen. It's the same proven 'pause before you open' idea, aimed at your body as well as your attention — and free to start. It's the movement-based take on the wider reduce screen time playbook.
Where One Sec is stronger
If you specifically want a calming, mindfulness-style pause, or you lean heavily on iOS Shortcuts and automations, One Sec's breathing focus and integrations are more developed. For pure mindful friction without the physical element, it's a strong, established option.
Pricing
One Sec is freemium — free to try, with full features behind a subscription. StretchLock is free to start. Since the two are so similar in spirit, trying StretchLock first is an easy way to see whether you prefer movement over breathing as your pause. Confirm current pricing on each app before subscribing.
Which should you choose?
Choose StretchLock if…
People who like the 'pause before you open' idea but want that pause to fight the physical toll of screen time, not just calm the mind.
Get StretchLock →Choose One Sec if…
People who want a mindfulness-style breathing pause and deep iOS Shortcuts automation.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between StretchLock and One Sec?
Both add a pause before you open a distracting app. One Sec uses a deep breath; StretchLock uses a quick stretch. StretchLock's version also targets the posture and mobility problems that come from heavy screen use, while One Sec focuses on the mindfulness side.
Is StretchLock like One Sec?
Yes, they share the same core idea — intentional friction before distracting apps to break the scrolling reflex. The key difference is the action in the pause: One Sec has you breathe, StretchLock has you stretch.
Does One Sec work on Android?
Yes, One Sec is available on both iOS and Android, as is StretchLock. Both work cross-platform, so your choice comes down to whether you prefer a breathing pause or a movement pause.
Is StretchLock free like One Sec?
Both are accessible at no cost to start — StretchLock is free to start and One Sec is freemium with paid upgrades. Trying StretchLock is an easy way to test the movement-based version of the same habit.
Which is better for reducing screen time, StretchLock or One Sec?
Both use the same friction approach, so both can meaningfully cut impulsive app use. StretchLock may suit you better if you also want to undo the physical strain of sitting and scrolling, since it builds movement into every pause.
We make StretchLock, so we are not a neutral referee — but we have tried to be fair about where One Secis the better choice. Features and pricing change; check each app's own site for the latest details.