Comparison · checked 27 September 2026
MiniMove vs ScreenZen
ScreenZen is a free, donation-funded app that adds a configurable delay and open limits before distracting apps; MiniMove replaces the wait with a Move of 90 seconds or less and keeps a free core loop, with MiniMove+ as an option. Choose ScreenZen if you want everything free with simple waiting friction; choose MiniMove if you would rather spend those seconds moving or breathing and watch them add up.
Verdict
Who should pick which?
Choose ScreenZen if…
You want a completely free tool and a short wait is enough friction for you.
Choose MiniMove if…
You would rather spend those seconds on a squat, a breath or a glass of water, see them add up in your Bank, and keep your windows counted by real use.
Side by side
MiniMove and ScreenZen, criterion by criterion.
| Criterion | MiniMove | ScreenZen |
|---|---|---|
| How you unlock | One Move of 90 seconds or less (squats, a breath, a glass of water…), checked by timer, taps, motion or pedometer. No camera needed. | A delay before a distracting app opens, which can grow with each open, plus optional open limits and goals. |
| Body and mind variety | 46 Moves in 4 families: Body, Breathe, Mind and Care. | Waiting friction; no movement or breathing challenges. |
| Discreet mode in public | Yes: one tap swaps in an invisible Move such as a breath, an intention check or calf raises. | Waiting is discreet by nature. |
| Unlock timer | Real use: 5, 15, 30 or 60 minutes spent in the app, capped at twice that on the clock. | Short, deliberate check-ins and optional limits per app. |
| Tone | Positive: Moves are earned, never paid, and skipped scrolls are celebrated. | Calm and minimalist. |
| Free version | Core loop free forever, no account: 3 apps, 13 Moves, unlimited unlocks. | Entirely free, funded by donations. |
| Price (US App Store) | MiniMove+ $8.99/month or $49.99/year, each with a 7-day trial, or $119.99 once (€9.99, €59.99, €129.99). | Free. Rated 4.8 (30K+ ratings). |
| Web dashboard | Coming soon: Bank, streak and MiniScore on a big screen, with an optional account. | Not verified. |
Sources: ScreenZen on the App Store · ScreenZen website
Questions
ScreenZen or MiniMove: your questions.
Is ScreenZen free?
Yes: ScreenZen is entirely free and funded by donations. MiniMove's core loop is free forever too, with MiniMove+ as an option.
Does ScreenZen need the camera?
No: ScreenZen adds a delay before apps open. MiniMove does not need the camera either.
Can I use ScreenZen and MiniMove together?
You can, but two gates on the same app add friction and can get in each other's way. Pick one tool per app: for example, keep one on the apps you want to pause and MiniMove on the apps you want to earn.
Which one works in French?
MiniMove's app, site and guides are written in French. ScreenZen's website is in English (checked 27 September 2026).
Which one counts real usage time?
MiniMove: after a Move, its window counts the minutes you actually spend in the app. ScreenZen works with delays and open limits instead of an earned window.
Ready?
Your next scroll starts with a small win.
Free, no account. iPhone with iOS 26.5 or later.