Love Forest's gamification but hate that it's mobile-only? Get the same focus benefits on your computer with flow state protection.
| Feature | Forest App | 25MinuteTimer |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Mobile only | Web + Desktop + Mobile |
| Price | $3.99 - $8.99 | Free forever |
| Flow State Protection | ❌ Forces breaks | ✅ Protects flow |
| Session Length | Fixed 25 min | ✅ Flexible (10-60 min) |
| Download Required | ❌ Yes | ✅ No, instant use |
| Account Required | ❌ Yes | ✅ No, works immediately |
| Desktop Support | ❌ None | ✅ Full support |
Forest is mobile-only. If you work on a computer (like most knowledge workers), Forest simply doesn't work for you. 25MinuteTimer runs in any browser, on any device - desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone.
Reality: Most developers, writers, and professionals work on desktops. Forest's mobile-only design is a fundamental limitation.
Forest forces you to take a break every 25 minutes. If you're in deep focus coding or writing, that interruption destroys your productivity.
25MinuteTimer detects when you're in flow state and asks if you want to extend your session. It protects your productivity instead of breaking it.
Research: Interrupting flow state can reduce productivity by 30% (University of California). Forest causes this problem; 25MinuteTimer solves it.
Forest costs $3.99 on iOS and $1.99-$8.99+ on Android with their controversial subscription. 25MinuteTimer is completely free - no ads, no subscriptions, no limits.
Why pay for a timer that doesn't even work on your desktop?
Forest locks you into 25-minute sessions. But not all tasks fit this timeframe. Quick tasks need 10 minutes. Deep work might need 45-60 minutes.
25MinuteTimer lets you choose: 10, 15, 25, 30, 45, or 60 minutes. You're in control.
Forest has excellent gamification - planting virtual trees that grow while you focus. If you're:
Bottom line: If you work on a computer, 25MinuteTimer is the superior choice. If you're mobile-only and love gamification, Forest is still great.
Work on a computer? Need deep focus for coding? Forest's mobile-only design doesn't work for you. 25MinuteTimer runs in your browser, protects your flow state during complex coding sessions.
Creative work happens on desktops. Forest can't help you there. Get flow state protection that understands creative momentum shouldn't be interrupted.
Forest's rigid breaks are torture for ADHD. 25MinuteTimer lets you extend sessions when you're finally focused. Works with your brain, not against it.
Studying requires desktops for research, papers, assignments. Use a timer that actually works where you study - on your computer.
Get the Forest app experience on your desktop, with flow state protection. Free, no download required.
Try 25MinuteTimer Now →No sign-up required • Works in browser • Instant start