22 Best ADHD apps in 2025 (Free & Paid)

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, can make everyday tasks feel more difficult.

It often involves challenges with staying focused, being overly active, and acting on impulse without thinking things through.

To help manage these ADHD symptoms, it's a good idea to use certain tools and strategies. These can help you handle your reactions and prevent your symptoms from disrupting your daily life. 

We will dive into this topic in this article.

1. What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. People with ADHD experience an ongoing pattern of the following types of symptoms:

Inattention means a person may have difficulty staying on task, sustaining focus, and staying organized, and these problems are not due to defiance or lack of comprehension.

• Hyperactivity means a person may seem to move about constantly, including in situations when it is not appropriate, or excessively fidgets, taps, or talks. In adults, hyperactivity may mean extreme restlessness or talking too much.
• Impulsivity means a person may act without thinking or have difficulty with self-control. Impulsivity could also include a desire for immediate rewards or the inability to delay gratification. An impulsive person may interrupt others or make important decisions without considering long-term consequences.

2. Do Any ADHD Apps Actually Help?

What Is an ADHD App?

An ADHD app is a digital tool designed to support people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by improving focus, reducing overwhelm, and managing executive function challenges. Many modern ADHD apps now include AI features like smart reminders, voice journaling, personalized prompts, and digital cognitive offloading.

Popular ADHD apps include:

• Saner.AI – AI note organizer built for distracted minds
• Tiimo – Visual daily planner with ADHD-friendly design
• Todoist with AI – Smart task list with natural language input
• Focusmate – Real-time body doubling app for accountability

Do ADHD Apps Actually Work?

Yes - if you use the right one. Here’s why some apps truly help:

• They externalize memory: Helping you remember tasks without relying on your brain.
• They reduce context switching, especially tools like Saner.AI that keep all thoughts connected.
• They offer structure: Timers, planners, and step-by-step guides are essential for ADHD brains.
• They give dopamine hits: Completing visual tasks or tracking streaks can keep motivation high.

ADHD Apps That Actually Help: Key Features to Look For

To get real value from an ADHD app, make sure it offers:

✅ AI note linking (e.g., Saner.AI)
✅ Visual scheduling tools (e.g., Tiimo)
✅ Built-in accountability (e.g., Focusmate)
✅ Low-friction input (voice capture, auto-tagging, etc.)
✅ Offline functionality and privacy controls

What are the best ADHD Apps in 2025?

We've tested more than 44 Apps and the best ADHD apps in 2025 are: Saner.AI, Finch, Forest, and Brain.fm

1. ADHD Productivity Tools

1) Saner.AI - AI assistant

Saner.AI is a distraction-free ADHD app that helps you stay on top of your thoughts, tasks, and notes - without bouncing between five different tools. It’s designed by people with ADHD, which shows in the little things: clean layout, no clutter, fast capture, and AI that actually understands what you meant to write

It works as a task assistant that understands messy inputs - voice notes, rambling thoughts, scattered links - and helps organize, prioritize, and schedule them without overwhelming you.

Key features

• Minimal interface: no overwhelm, no tabs screaming at me
• Note + task hybrid: capture anything, check off to-dos, revisit ideas
• AI Inbox: Automatically triages notes, emails, and tasks—suggests actions like “turn into task” or “schedule”
• Chat-based task manager: You can literally type “break this down” or “reschedule everything,” and it’ll just do it
• Calendar integration: Pulls deadlines and tasks into your schedule, no drag-and-drop needed
• Focus mode: Pins one task at a time, so you’re not distracted by a huge list
• Voice + transcription: great for capturing ideas mid-walk or mid-rant
• Imports from everything: I brought in stuff from Apple Notes, Markdown, and Google Docs
• Works on mobile and desktop: finally, I can use it on the go

What I liked:

• It reduces context switching. I don’t need to ask, “Where did I write that?”
• I love how easy it is to offload thoughts. I just dump a note, and Saner figures out what’s actionable.
• The chat interface makes task planning feel natural, like texting an assistant.
• It feels ADHD-friendly. No fluff, no setup time, just open and type
• Voice note capture is fast and actually usable

Cons

• Requires internet access for full functionality.

Pricing

• Free 
• Starter: Monthly at $8/month, Annually at $6/month (with early user discount)
• Standard: Monthly at $16/month, Annually at $12/month (with early user discount)

Suitable for

Anyone with ADHD (or ADHD-like tendencies) who needs help turning messy thoughts into doable steps. It’s ideal if you constantly lose track of your tasks or hate traditional to-do apps that expect you to stay organized on your own.

Saner.AI Reviews

How to start

Just go to saner.ai, make a free account, connect your tools, and start chatting with Skai. The AI will suggest tasks and help you organize without the usual friction.

Stay on top of life with the top ADHD app

Try Saner.AI for free

2) Obsidian

Obsidian is a markdown-based note app that helps you build a second brain. It’s flexible, offline-first, and incredibly powerful once set up. It’s great if you love linking thoughts together and want a visual, personalized way to manage your ideas.

Key features

• Local markdown notes: Everything lives on your device and is future-proof
• Bi-directional linking: Connect ideas like a wiki, perfect for non-linear thinking
• Graph view: See all your notes visually and how they’re connected
• Daily notes: Start each day with a clean slate and structure
• Plugin ecosystem: Add task managers, kanban boards, spaced repetition, and more
• Themes and custom layouts: Personalize the look and feel to fit your brain

What I liked

• The graph view is motivating. Seeing my knowledge grow over time gives me little dopamine hits.
• Daily notes + task plugins help me focus on just what matters today, instead of drowning in a huge to-do list.
• I don’t need to be online, and there are no popups or notifications.

What I didn’t like

• It’s easy to fall into the trap of over-customizing. People spent hours tweaking instead of actually using it at first.
• The learning curve is real. If you’re not familiar with Markdown or plugins, it can feel overwhelming.
• No built-in sync unless you pay for it. Not a deal-breaker, but something to consider.
• If you’re easily distracted, it’s still a digital tool - you’re just one click away from YouTube or Reddit.

Pricing

• Free core app
• Paid add-ons like sync and publish (optional)

Suitable for

People with ADHD who want a highly flexible way to organize their thoughts, love visual thinking, and aren’t afraid to start simple and grow into the tool over time.

How to start

Download Obsidian, make a vault, try the daily note feature, and resist the urge to install every plugin on day one. Start small.

Obsidian review (source)

3) Google Keep

Google Keep is one of the simplest ADHD apps I’ve used — and that’s what makes it work. It’s basically a digital sticky-note wall that lives across all your devices. You can jot quick thoughts, make checklists, set reminders, and color-code everything. No setup, no overwhelm.

Key features

• Voice memos that transcribe automatically
• Color-coded notes that are easy to scan
• Checklists with time or location-based reminders
• Labels for basic organization
• Syncs instantly across web and mobile

What I liked

• I like how fast it is to open and capture a thought.
• It’s perfect for brain dumps
• Color-coding makes it ADHD-friendly..
• Best part? It’s completely free

What I didn’t like

• It’s super basic, no sub-tasks, no formatting, no hierarchy.
• Once you have a bunch of notes, it gets messy fast unless you’re diligent with labels.
• It’s not built for structured planning — I wouldn’t use it to manage a big project or multi-step goal.
• There’s no calendar view or real timeline feature. It’s more capture than planning.
• Occasionally, sync is glitchy between devices, especially offline.

Pricing

• 100% free

Suitable for

• People with ADHD who need a quick, no-pressure way to capture thoughts
• Anyone already using Google tools

How to start

• Just download Google Keep on your phone or open it in your browser
• Start with a checklist or quick note, color-code it, and you’re off

4) SimpleMind

SimpleMind is a mind mapping app that helps you visually organize thoughts, which is incredibly helpful if you have ADHD. It lets you brainstorm freely, connect ideas, and make sense of messy thinking without forcing everything into a rigid task list.

It’s great for people who think better in pictures than in paragraphs.

Key features

• Free-form mind mapping with drag-and-drop flexibility
• Auto-layouts if you prefer more structure
• Add notes, images, checkboxes, links, even voice memos
• Color-code, collapse branches, and style maps to reduce clutter
• Sync across iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows
• Export maps as PDFs, images, or outlines

What I liked

• It’s super visual, open-ended, and doesn’t get in your way
• The interface is smooth and intuitive; I didn’t need a tutorial to get started
• Being able to collapse parts of the map helps me focus when things start feeling overwhelming

What I disliked

• It doesn’t have any reminders or scheduling features, so I still need a separate to-do app
• Not built for collaboration or team workflows
• If you’re not a visual thinker, mind maps might feel confusing at first
• Can’t assign deadlines or track progress like a traditional project manager

Pricing

• Free Lite version available
• Paid mobile app is a one-time purchase (around $10)
• Desktop version is also a one-time payment (around $30)

Suitable for:
Anyone with ADHD who needs a visual way to organize thoughts, brainstorm ideas, or plan out projects, especially students, creatives, or solo professionals.

How to start:
Download SimpleMind Lite on your phone or computer and just start mapping. Upgrade if you want more features or need to work across devices.

5) Todoist

Todoist is simple, fast, and works across every device. You can use it to quickly brain-dump tasks and organize them later when you have more mental bandwidth.

Key features

• Natural-language task input (just type “pay rent every 1st” and it auto-schedules)
• Quick-capture inbox for getting thoughts out of your head fast
• Recurring tasks for daily meds, workouts, planning, etc.
• Works across desktop, mobile, tablet—even your watch
• Karma points system that rewards you for completing tasks

What I liked

• The quick capture is perfect when I’m overwhelmed
• Karma points are a small thing, but they really give me that dopamine kick to keep going.
• It’s super clean and low-friction—no clutter, no learning curve.

What I didn’t like

• You don’t get reminders on the free plan, which is a bit of a bummer if you rely on nudges.
• There’s no built-in focus timer or Pomodoro mode, which would be great for ADHD.
• If you want to write longer notes or context, you’ll need another app.
• The default setup can feel empty unless you take time to build a system that works for you.
• You need Premium to sync with your calendar and unlock most helpful features.
• You have to store your documents elsewhere, which increases the context switching

Pricing

• Free plan available (no reminders or calendar sync)
• Premium is around $4/month (adds reminders, calendar, templates)
• Business plan for teams

Suitable for
Anyone with ADHD who needs a simple, flexible to-do app that works everywhere and helps you stay organized without overwhelming you.

How to start
Go to todoist.com, sign up for the free plan, and start by dumping everything into your Inbox. From there, build projects or use labels if you want more structure.

Todoist reviews (source)

6) Sunsama

Sunsama is a daily planning app that helps you time-block your tasks, meetings, and routines in one place.
It’s designed to keep you focused and intentional, especially useful if you deal with ADHD and tend to get overwhelmed by scattered to-dos and time blindness.

Key features

• Time Blocking: Drag tasks into your calendar and set realistic durations
• Daily Planning: Morning prompts to help you pick 3–5 meaningful priorities
• Focus Mode: One-task-at-a-time view with built-in timers
• End-of-Day Review: Wrap up your day and roll over unfinished tasks

What I liked

• Timeboxing with visual blocks and estimation tools gives tangible cues for users
• Focus Mode is good. It hides everything but the task I’m doing.
• The daily and weekly rituals help me reflect and feel like I’m making progress, even on rough days.

What I disliked

• If you’re new to time-blocking, the setup can be a bit much at first.
• It’s not meant for big project management—no timelines or dependencies.
• I wish the mobile app were a bit more powerful, especially for planning on the go.
• You have to store your documents elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself, you don't have an assistant to help you with it like in Saner.AI

Pricing

• 14-day free trial
• $20/month or $16/month billed annually

Suitable for

People with ADHD who need structure but not rigidity. If you struggle with overwhelm, poor time estimation, or feeling scattered, this could be one of the most helpful ADHD apps you try.

How to start

Go to sunsama.com, sign up for the free trial, and follow the daily planning walkthrough. Don’t try to plan everything—just start with a few tasks and build the habit.

Sunsama reviews (source)

7) Any.do

Any.do is a sleek task and calendar app that helps you stay organized across devices. You can manage tasks, set reminders, sync with your calendar, and even get smart daily planning suggestions—all in one place.

Key features

• My Day: A focused daily view that filters out everything but today’s priorities
• Calendar Integration: Syncs with Google, Outlook, and Apple calendars to avoid conflicts
• Location-Based Reminders: Get nudges when you’re at the right place
• Smart Suggestions: Uses AI to break down tasks and help with prioritization
• Cross-Device Sync: Works on phone, desktop, tablet, even smart assistants
• Voice Input: Quickly add tasks hands-free

What I liked

• The reminders are flexible. I use location-based ones all the time—like reminding me to grab something when I get to the store.
• It’s also nice that everything is synced across devices, so if I capture a thought on my phone, it shows up on my laptop later.

What I disliked

• A lot of the more useful ADHD features—like recurring tasks or color tagging—are locked behind the premium plan.
• There have been a few moments where syncing felt slow or clunky. Nothing major, but it throws me off.
• You have to store your documents elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself, you don't have an assistant to help you with it, like in Saner.AI

Pricing

• Free plan available
• Premium plan at $5.99/month
• Family and team plans from $7.99–$9.99/month

Suitable for:
People with ADHD who want a simple, all-in-one place to manage tasks and calendars without too much friction.

How to start:
Download Any.do, try the free plan, and upgrade if you need recurring tasks or more control over your schedule.

8) TickTick

TickTick is a flexible to-do list app that’s ADHD-friendly. It combines tasks, calendar, habit tracking, and Pomodoro timers. It’s great for anyone who wants more structure and focus without the overwhelm of a complex project management tool.

Key features

• Task lists, calendar, Kanban, and Eisenhower Matrix views
• Pomodoro timer with built-in focus stats
• Recurring habits and reminders (daily, weekly, custom)
• Time-blocking with calendar sync (Google, Outlook, iCal)
• Cross-platform: iOS, Android, desktop, web, and smartwatch

What I liked:

• I like that the Pomodoro timer is built in. I use it daily to stay on task — it helps me start when I’m procrastinating.
• It’s nice having everything (tasks, calendar, habits) in one place. No app switching.

What I disliked:

• It can get overwhelming if you try to use every feature at once. I had to learn to keep it simple.
• The best stuff (like calendar blocking and filters) is behind the Premium plan.
• You have to store your documents elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself; you don't have an assistant to help you with it, like in Saner.AI
• Notifications can be a bit noisy — I had to tweak them to avoid distraction.
• Not ideal for team projects or collaboration. It’s more of a personal productivity tool.

Pricing:

• Free version available with core features
• Premium is around $28/year and unlocks calendar sync, custom filters, and more

Suitable for:
ADHDers, solo professionals, students — really anyone who wants to stay focused, build routines, and get more done without a steep learning curve.

How to start:
Download TickTick, sign up for free, and try adding a few habits and a Pomodoro timer. You’ll know pretty quickly if it works for your brain.

TickTick Reviews (Source)

9) Llama Life

Llama Life is a playful, ADHD-friendly task manager that helps you stay focused by time-boxing your to-dos. It’s perfect if your brain gets stuck deciding what to do next or if you lose track of time easily.

Key features

• Time Boxing: Set a timer for each task to stay on track
• Finish Time Estimator: See when you’ll be done with your day
• Gentle Audio Cues: Get nudges when it’s time to switch
• Dopamine Boosters: Confetti, sound effects, cute llama mascot
• Soundscapes: Brown noise to stay in the zone
• Mobile & Web: Works on iOS, Android, and desktop

What I liked

• I love how it keeps me focused on just one task.
• It’s fun! The little bursts of celebration when you finish a task make it easier to stay motivated.

What I disliked

• There’s no desktop Mac app yet — just the browser version.
• I wish it had more data tracking, like a way to see how long tasks really take over time.
• You have to store your documents elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself; you don't have an assistant to help you with it, like in Saner.AI
• The reminders could be stronger. I’d like an alert before time runs out, not just when it ends.

Pricing

• Free 7-day trial
• Monthly plan around $6
• Annual plan around $39

Suitable for

Anyone with ADHD (or ADHD tendencies) who wants a gentle, non-overwhelming way to get through their to-do list — one task at a time.

How to start

Go to llamalife.co, sign up for the free trial, and start adding tasks with timers. It's that simple.

Llama Life reviews (source)

10) Structured

Structured is a visual daily planner that helps you map out your day in color-coded blocks. It’s super useful if you have ADHD and struggle with time blindness, planning fatigue, or task overwhelm.

It's great for anyone with a busy brain who needs visual structure without too much setup.

Key features

• Visual Time Blocking: Drag-and-drop your day into clear, colorful chunks
• Calendar Sync: Pulls in existing events so you don’t double-book
• Task Planning: Lets you set tasks with start/end times and durations
• Reminders: Get notified before each task
• Cross-Platform: Works on iOS, Mac, Android, and web

What I liked

• The timeline view really clicks for the ADHD brain
• It feels lightweight and fast. No bloated features, just a simple timeline.
• I like how I can add recurring habits like “plan tomorrow” to build a routine.

What I didn’t like

• If a task runs long, I have to manually move everything around.
• No auto-reschedule for incomplete tasks—can be frustrating on chaotic days.
• Recurring task setup isn’t very flexible unless you’re on the paid plan.
• You have to store your notes elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself; you don't have an assistant to help you with it, like in Saner.AI
• Android app feels a bit less polished than iOS.
• Not ideal for managing long-term projects—this is more about daily planning.

Pricing

• Free version with core features
• Pro version ~$4.99/year or ~$30 lifetime
• No monthly subscription required unless you want premium widgets and AI

Suitable for
Anyone with ADHD or executive dysfunction who wants a simple, visual way to plan each day without distractions or complexity.

How to start
Download the app, sync your calendar, and start blocking out your day. I’d recommend building a habit of planning the next day each evening—it makes mornings smoother.

11) Tiimo

Tiimo is a visual planning app designed for people with ADHD. It helps you structure your day with timelines, task breakdowns, and focus timers - without overwhelming you. Everything’s colorful, flexible, and built to reduce friction for neurodivergent brains.

Key features

• Visual Schedule: Color-coded daily timelines that make time feel more concrete
• AI Co-Planner: Helps break down big tasks and estimate how long things will take
• To-Do Lists: Organize tasks by category or priority, without rigid time slots
• Focus Timers: Easy-to-use timers to support transitions and keep momentum
• Mood Tracking: Log how you're feeling and spot patterns

What I liked

• I like how visual and calming the app feels
• The focus timer isn’t rigid like a Pomodoro
• It syncs across devices, including my Apple Watch, so I can check things at a glance

What I disliked

• The timer sometimes glitches or adds time randomly, which throws me off
• I’ve had some sync issues—like routines duplicating or not updating properly
• The layout doesn’t scale well on iPad; everything feels a bit too small
• You have to store your notes elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself; you don't have an assistant to help you with it, like in Saner.AI

Pricing

• Free version available with basic features
• Tiimo Pro unlocks full features with a 7-day free trial

Suitable for

People with ADHD who want a gentle, visual way to manage time and tasks. It’s especially good for folks who struggle with task initiation and time blindness.

How to start

Download the app, set up a timeline, and try out the AI task planner. You can stick with the free version or upgrade if you need more.

Tiimo Reviews (source)

12) Finch

Finch is a self-care app disguised as a virtual pet—perfect for ADHD brains like mine that need structure but resist it. You get a cute little bird that grows as you complete simple self-care tasks. It’s low-pressure, highly gamified, and surprisingly effective at nudging you into healthier habits without making it feel like work.

Key features

• Gentle habit tracking: Set goals like brushing your teeth or drinking water
• Mood check-ins: Reflect on how you’re feeling with quick, easy prompts
• Gamified progress: Earn rewards, outfits, and upgrades for your pet bird
• Breathing + grounding tools: Built-in exercises for anxiety or overwhelm
• Journaling: Simple reflection prompts that feel doable
• Tree Town: Add friends for extra motivation and accountability

What I liked

• I like that Finch doesn’t punish you for missing a day. There’s no streak anxiety, which is perfect for ADHD.
• The rewards are actually motivating.
• It’s low effort.
• The free version is generous

What I didn’t like

• Pricing is weird. iOS users pay way less than Android users for the same premium version.
• After a while, the bird stuff can feel a little childish - it might not be for everyone or for a professional work environment
• There’s no calendar or time-based scheduling, so it’s not great if you want to plan your day hour-by-hour.
• You have to store your notes elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself; you don't have an assistant to help you with it, like in Saner.AI

Pricing

• Free version available with core features
• Premium: Around $15/year on iOS, but up to $70/year on Android (yikes)

Suitable for

Anyone with ADHD who struggles to stick to daily habits or needs positive reinforcement to build routines. It’s especially helpful for folks who get overwhelmed by traditional to-do lists or apps that feel too rigid.

How to start

Download Finch from the App Store or Google Play, create your little bird, and start with 2–3 self-care goals. That’s all it takes.

Finch reviews (source)

13) Goblin.Tools

Goblin.tools is a quirky little ADHD app that’s surprisingly powerful. It’s a bundle of mini tools designed to help tackle executive dysfunction - things like breaking down tasks, estimating time, or even figuring out how to sound polite in an email.

Key features

• Magic ToDo: Breaks down vague or overwhelming tasks into step-by-step action items
• Estimator: Helps guess how long a task might take—great for time blindness
• Formalizer: Changes tone in messages (e.g., “make this sound polite”)
• Judge: Quickly checks if something sounds off, rude, or passive-aggressive
• Compiler: Turns a brain dump into a clean list
• Chef: Suggests meals based on what’s in your fridge
• Professor & Consultant: Summarize info or weigh pros/cons for decisions

What I liked

• I love that Magic ToDo breaks things down without me having to think. I just type “clean my apartment” and suddenly I’ve got a manageable checklist.
• It doesn’t try to be everything. Each tool has a clear purpose and doesn’t overwhelm me.
• The web version is totally free, and even the mobile app is super cheap - like $2 one-time.

What I disliked

• The mobile app confused me at first - there are a lot of tools, and I wasn’t sure where to start.
• Some tools, like Estimator or Professor, are hit-or-miss depending on what you throw at them.
• It’s not a full planner, no calendar or habit tracking, so I still need other tools alongside it.
• A few Android users mentioned billing issues or crashes, so I stuck with the web version.
• You have to store your notes elsewhere, which increases the context switching
• And you have to manually organize stuff yourself; you don't have an assistant to help you with it, like in Saner.AI

Pricing

• Free web app
• Mobile apps: Around $2 one-time (iOS); Android may require a subscription

Suitable for
Anyone with ADHD looking for a quick, no-pressure way to break down tasks, get unstuck, and build momentum—without having to set up a whole productivity system.

How to start
Go to the goblin.tools, try it out free on the web, or grab the app if you want it on your phone.

2. Distraction Blocking apps

Forest

Forest is a gamified focus timer that helps you stay off your phone and on task. You “plant” a tree when you start focusing, and it grows as long as you don’t leave the app. If you do, the tree dies. It’s simple, visual, and surprisingly effective, especially for ADHD brains that crave structure and reward.

Key features

• Focus Timer: Choose how long you want to focus—usually 25, 50, or 90 minutes
• Deep Focus Mode: Prevents you from using other apps during the timer
• Tagging & Stats: Track your focus by activity or category
• Real Tree Planting: Earn coins and use them to plant real trees (optional but cool)
• Group Sessions: Focus together with friends or co-workers
• One-Time Purchase: No subscription required (around $4 on iOS, free on Android with in-app purchases)

What I liked

• I like how visual and simple it is—when I’m overwhelmed, tapping “plant tree” feels like a low-friction way to start working
• The tree dying if I check my phone is actually a great deterrent - I don’t want to kill it!
• The app makes it feel like I accomplished something, even if I only worked for 25 minutes

What I disliked

• It’s not a task manager - you can’t make a to-do list or plan your day inside Forest
• The novelty wears off over time, especially if you’re not into gamification
• No strong desktop support—the browser extension is limited
• Deep Focus (which blocks apps) only works if you give the app permission—it’s not foolproof
• It’s great for focus sprints, but doesn’t help much with long-term planning or prioritization

Pricing

• Free on Android (with optional in-app purchases)
• ~$4 one-time purchase on iOS
• No monthly fees or subscriptions

Suitable for
Anyone with ADHD who wants a simple, non-overwhelming tool to stay off their phone and actually start working, especially helpful for students, writers, and people who need external accountability.

How to start
Download the app, pick a focus time, and plant your first tree. Try using it for just one task at a time, like reading or email. It’s surprisingly motivating.

Forest Reviews (source)

2) Freedom.to

Freedom.to is one of the simplest ADHD apps I’ve tried
It blocks distracting websites and apps across all your devices, helping you stay focused without constantly relying on willpower. Just schedule a session, and everything that usually pulls you off-track quietly disappears.

Key features

• Cross-device blocking: Kills distractions on your phone, tablet, and computer at once
• Custom blocklists: Choose exactly what to block (social media, news, games, etc.)
• Scheduled sessions: Plan recurring blocks or start them on demand
• Background noise: Optional ambient sounds to stay in flow
• Locked mode: Can’t quit a session once it starts (great for impulsive days)
• Free trial: You get 7 free sessions to try it out

What I liked

• I like how simple it is
• The cross-device sync is super useful.
• Locked mode has saved me more than once from myself. When I turn it on, there’s no going back.
• It’s one of the few ADHD apps that actually removes friction instead of adding more tools to manage.

What I didn’t like

• It doesn’t remind you to start sessions - you have to build that habit yourself.
• No built-in timers, routines, or task management. It’s purely a blocker.
• Setting up custom blocklists takes a little effort upfront, which can be tricky if you’re already overwhelmed.
• It’s a paid app after the trial, so not totally free.

Pricing

• Free: 7 sessions
• Monthly plan: $8.99
• Annual plan: $39.99/year
• Forever plan: $159 one-time

Suitable for:
Anyone with ADHD who gets sucked into rabbit holes and wants a dead-simple tool to block distractions across all their devices.

How to start:
Download the app, create a free account, and try a few focus sessions. If it works for you, pick the plan that fits.

Freedom.to review (source)

3) OneSec

OneSec is a simple but clever ADHD app that helps break the habit of mindlessly opening distracting apps.
Every time you try to open something like Instagram or TikTok, it triggers a short pause, like a breathing exercise or a delay screen, so you have a chance to stop and think, “Do I really want to open this right now?”

It’s especially helpful for people with ADHD who struggle with impulsivity and dopamine-driven distractions.

Key features

• App Interception: Adds a pause before opening selected apps to interrupt automatic behavior
• Mindful Delays: Prompts like breathing, reflection questions, or even a mirror screen to increase awareness
• Usage Insights: Tracks how often you tried to open an app and how many times you stopped yourself
• Local Privacy: All data is processed on-device, no account or syncing required
• Cross-Platform: Available on iOS, Android, macOS, and Chrome (with some features limited on Android)

What I liked

• It’s genuinely helped me catch myself before doom-scrolling. That quick pause makes me ask why I’m even opening the app.
• The breathing screen is surprisingly effective; it creates just enough friction to disrupt the habit.
• I like that it works silently in the background. Once it’s set up, I don’t have to think about it.

What I disliked

• You only get one app blocked on the free plan. If you want to block more, you need the Pro version.
• Setup can be a little tedious, especially on iOS, where you have to create automations in Shortcuts.
• It occasionally bugs out, once or twice, and it popped up in the middle of another task.

Pricing

• Free plan for one app
• Pro plan starts around $4/month or $15/year
• Lifetime and family plans are also available

Suitable for:
Anyone (especially ADHDers) who wants to reduce impulsive app use without going full digital detox. Great for folks who want to stay off TikTok, Instagram, or shopping apps.

How to start:
Just download Onesec, choose an app to block, set up a pause screen, and you’re good to go. You’ll be shocked how often you catch yourself.

3. Pomodoro apps

1) Pomofocus

Pomofocus.io is a simple, browser-based Pomodoro timer that helps me stay focused by breaking work into short bursts. It’s one of those ADHD apps that just gets out of the way and lets you work. No fluff, no setup, no login.

It’s ideal if you want structure without complexity.

Key features

• Custom work, short break, and long break intervals
• Task list with estimated Pomodoro sessions
• Simple daily/weekly/monthly focus reports
• Optional task templates and project tracking (premium)
• Works in any desktop or mobile browser

What I liked

• The clean layout makes it easy to focus — no distractions or overwhelming menus
• I like estimating how long tasks will take — it keeps me grounded
• Seeing my focus stats over the week helps me feel like I’m actually getting things done

What I disliked

• No real mobile app — and the timer pauses if your phone screen locks, which is frustrating
• No built-in reminders or distraction blockers — if I wander, the app won’t stop me
• If you want smart AI features or voice controls, this isn’t that kind of assistant

Pricing

• Free with full access to the basics
• Premium unlocks templates, projects, and task exports

Suitable for

Anyone with ADHD who wants a dead-simple, effective way to stay on task, especially if you're not into complex productivity tools

How to start

Go to pomofocus.io, tweak your timer settings, and hit start — no account needed

4. Self-Care and Sleep Apps

1) Headspace

Headspace is a mindfulness and meditation app that helps calm the chaos. It’s often recommended as one of the best ADHD apps because it’s simple, structured, and surprisingly effective at helping you reset when your brain’s all over the place.

It’s great if you’re looking to reduce anxiety, sleep better, and stay a little more grounded day to day.

Key features

• Guided meditations (as short as 3 minutes)
• Sleepcasts and soundscapes to help wind down at night
• Focus music and breathing tools for mid-day overwhelm
• Daily “Wake Up” stories to ease into the morning
• Progress tracking to keep the habit going

What I liked:

• I love how short the sessions are - makes it feel doable even when I’m scattered
• The sleepcasts are legit helpful when my brain won’t shut up at night
• The app is super clean and calming—no visual clutter or decision fatigue
• It adds just enough structure to my day without being rigid

What I disliked:

• It’s on the pricey side if you’re not using it often
• The navigation between different sections isn’t always intuitive
• Coaching and therapy features are only available through their separate Headspace Care platform

Pricing:

• Free version with limited content
• $12.99/month or $69.99/year for full access
• Discounts available for students and families

Suitable for:
Anyone with ADHD looking for a calming, non-overwhelming way to build mindfulness into their routine, especially helpful for sleep, anxiety, and focus.

How to start:
Download Headspace, start the free trial, and try a 3-minute meditation or sleepcast. That’s all it takes to get a feel for it.

Headspace review (source)

2) Calm

Calm is one of the most well-known mindfulness apps out there. It’s packed with guided meditations, relaxing music, and bedtime stories - all designed to help you sleep better, stress less, and focus more.

It’s especially helpful if you have ADHD and want something calming to ground your day without being overwhelmed.

Key features

• Guided Meditations: From 3-minute quick resets to 20-minute deep dives
• Sleep Stories: Hundreds of soothing bedtime stories, including celeb-narrated ones
• Daily Calm: A new short session every day to help you stay consistent
• Soundscapes: Ambient music and nature sounds to help with focus or winding down
• Mood & Habit Tracking: Lets you track your progress and mindfulness streaks

What I liked

• I like that it’s super easy to start—no pressure to do long sessions. Even a 5-minute meditation helps me reset when I’m scattered.
• The Sleep Stories are a lifesaver. On nights when my mind won’t slow down, I can throw one on and usually drift off without realizing it.
• It’s great that Calm adds new content regularly. I don’t feel like I’m stuck listening to the same thing every week.

What I didn’t like

• The free version is really limited. Most of the good stuff—like the full library and Sleep Stories—is behind a paywall.
• Canceling isn’t as smooth as it should be. If you forget about the trial or auto-renewal, you might end up paying when you didn’t mean to.
• Some of the nature sounds are actually distracting when I’m trying to focus—they’re soothing, but not always helpful during work.
• Calm isn’t built for ADHD specifically. It helps with symptoms like anxiety and sleep, but doesn’t support executive function or time management.

Pricing

• Free plan with limited features
• Premium is $14.99/month or $69.99/year
• Sometimes included with student or employer wellness plans

Suitable for:

People with ADHD are looking for help with mindfulness, stress, or sleep—not time management or planning.

How to start:

Download Calm, try the free sessions, and see if it fits your routine. Just make sure to cancel before the trial ends if you don’t want to subscribe.

Calm review (source)

3) Sensa

Sensa is a CBT-based mental health app that helps with anxiety, stress, and procrastination, making it one of the ADHD apps that’s been popping up a lot lately. It gives you daily exercises, mood tracking, and personalized habit plans to help build better routines.

Key features

• Personalized CBT plan based on a quick quiz
• Daily mood tracker with color-coded check-ins
• Quick exercises like deep breathing, grounding, and focus boosters
• Habit tracker to build and stick to routines
• Weekly DASS surveys to monitor mental health trends

What I liked

• The quick-relief tools are great when I’m feeling overwhelmed or scattered
• The daily mood check-in is simple, and I liked seeing patterns over time.

What I didn’t like

• It’s very text-heavy. For ADHD brains, that can get boring fast—no audio, visuals, or gamification.
• The habit-building stuff is fine, but nothing ADHD-specific like timers or reminders.
• There’s no free version or trial, and the price only shows up after you sign up.

Pricing

• $29.99/month
• $59.99 for 6 months
• No free trial or free version

Suitable for

People with ADHD who are looking for a CBT-based routine builder and don’t mind reading through text. Best if you’re self-motivated and already have some systems in place.

How to start

You’ll take a short quiz, get a personalized plan, and then you’re in. Just keep an eye on the billing—there’s no trial, so you’re committing upfront.

Sensa review (source)

5. Music app for ADHD

1) Focus@Will

Focus@Will is a music-based ADHD app designed to help you concentrate better by reducing auditory distractions. Instead of lyrics or catchy beats, it gives you instrumental music engineered to keep your brain in focus mode. Think of it like a productivity playlist that evolves with your preferences.

It’s a great option if you’re someone with ADHD who’s easily thrown off by background noise or has trouble staying in flow.

Key features

• Curated instrumental music channels for deep focus
• Personalized track recommendations based on your skips and likes
• Built-in timer to structure your focus sessions
• Progress tracking and stats to see how long you stay on task

What I liked

• I really like that I don’t have to build my own playlists
• The music is non-distracting and helps me get into a rhythm, especially when I’m doing admin work or reading.
• The timer is simple but useful, especially when I need a nudge to take a break.
• It actually adapts over time, so it feels more personalized the more I use it.

What I disliked

• Some of the tracks start to feel repetitive after a while, especially if you stick to one channel.
• The scientific claims are a bit too much
• It’s not ideal for writing or tasks that require a lot of verbal thinking.
• It’s a paid app, so if you’re on a tight budget, it might feel like a luxury.

Pricing

• Free 1-week trial
• Monthly plan starts at $9.95/month
• Annual plans available with discount

Suitable for:
People with ADHD who do better with structured sound in the background—great for admin work, reading, or repetitive tasks.

How to start:
Go to focusatwill.com, start your free trial, and test a few channels to find what works best for your brain.

Focus@will review (source)

2) Brain.fm

Brain.fm is a functional music app designed to help you focus, relax, or sleep better. It uses science-backed audio to influence brain activity, which is especially helpful if you have ADHD and struggle with focus or overstimulation.

Key features

• Focus Music: Boosts brain activity for better concentration
• ADHD Mode: Optional high-stimulation setting designed for neurodivergent brains
• Pomodoro Timers: Built-in timers help structure work sessions
• Relax & Sleep Modes: Audio for winding down or falling asleep
• Personalized Audio: Adjusts based on your energy, mood, and goal
• Mobile + Offline Access: Works on iOS, Android, and lets you listen without Wi-Fi

What I liked:

• I like the focus music — it gets me into flow way faster than silence or random playlists.
• The ADHD mode really works for me. It gives that extra mental nudge I need to stay on task.
• The built-in Pomodoro timers are great for staying structured without needing a separate app.

What I disliked:

• Some tracks didn’t click with me at first. Took a bit to find the right sound settings.
• The music library isn’t as huge or varied as Spotify or YouTube.
• It’s not a full productivity tool. No reminders, task management, or AI scheduling.
• A bit pricey if you’re not using it regularly.

Pricing:

• Free 7-day trial
• $6.99/month or $49.99/year
• Student discount available

Suitable for:

People with ADHD who need extra help staying focused, relaxing after work, or sticking to a routine. Great if you like structured sessions and non-invasive tools.

How to start:

Just download Brain.fm, start the free trial, and test out Focus Mode with the ADHD setting.

Brain.fm review (source)

Frequently Asked Questions about ADHD apps

1. What is an ADHD app?

An ADHD app is a digital tool designed to support focus, memory, planning, and emotional regulation—key challenges for people with ADHD. Unlike standard to-do lists or calendars, these apps help with:

• Reducing distractions
• Breaking down tasks into steps
• Managing time visually
• Reminding you of important follow-ups
• Turning ideas into actions automatically

Some ADHD apps also use AI to understand what you need without complex setup. Saner.AI, for example, acts like a smart brain assistant that helps you stay on track without switching between 10 tools.

2. What can ADHD apps help with?

Good ADHD apps are built for brains that bounce around. They can:

• Turn voice memos or ideas into tasks
• Find scattered notes instantly
• Remind you at the right time—not just any time
• Prioritize your day so you don’t get overwhelmed
• Pull context from past notes to keep you grounded
• Reduce decision fatigue and planning stress

Apps like Saner.AI combine all these into one calm, low-effort workspace.

3. Are there free ADHD apps?

Yes. Many top ADHD apps offer free versions:

• Saner.AI – Free plan includes smart reminders, natural note search, and AI task management
• TickTick – Free version includes Pomodoro and habit tracking
• Trello – Visual boards are good for ADHD brains, free for personal use
• ChatGPT – Free with basic access, can help structure your thoughts with prompts

Start free, and see what works for your brain.

4. What’s the best ADHD app for productivity?

Here’s how each tool supports productivity for ADHD users:

• Saner.ai – Converts thoughts into tasks, connects notes with reminders, and keeps everything in one calm place
• Brain.fm – Uses neuroscience-based music to help you enter a focus state quickly
• Forest – Visual timer that keeps you off distractions and rewards deep work
• Finch – Gentle support for planning your day and caring for your mental health

Together, they create a focused, low-stress workflow.

5. Can ADHD apps help with executive function?

Yes - and they’re often designed to. Executive function struggles like forgetfulness, time blindness, or task initiation can be supported with ADHD-friendly tools that:

• Break large projects into bite-sized steps
• Nudge you gently when you’re off track
• Show you what matters now, not everything at once
• Surface relevant notes and actions automatically

Apps like Saner.AI act more like a thinking partner than a to-do list.

6. What’s the best ADHD app for adults?

Adults with ADHD often juggle work, life, and mental clutter. Top apps that help:

• Saner.AI – Combines calendar, notes, and smart task management
• Brain.fm – Uses neuroscience-based music to help you enter a focus state quickly
• Forest – Visual timer that keeps you off distractions and rewards deep work
• Finch – Gentle support for planning your day and caring for your mental healthChoose the one that matches your flow—some people love structure, others need flexibility.

7. What’s the best ADHD app for students?

Students often struggle with remembering deadlines, organizing notes, and starting work. ADHD-friendly student apps include:

• Saner.AI – Helps summarize readings, manage study notes, and create tasks from class discussions
• Forest – Encourages deep focus using a visual timer
• Brain.fm – Uses neuroscience-based music to help you enter a focus state quickly

Look for tools that simplify, not add more to your plate.

8. Do ADHD apps really help?

Yes, especially when they’re designed with ADHD in mind. Effective apps can:

• Reduce the number of tools you need to manage
• Make remembering and organizing feel automatic
• Give you a sense of progress without overwhelm
• Help you take action, not just plan

Even small wins (like remembering to email your professor) add up. The right app can be life-changing.

9. Are there ADHD apps that support voice input?

Absolutely. Voice support is great for ADHD users who think faster than they type.

• Saner.AI – Lets you talk to create tasks, notes, and reminders
• Google Assistant / Siri – Basic reminder and note functions

If your brain works best out loud, voice-first apps can make a huge difference.

10. What’s the most ADHD-friendly AI app?

Saner.AI stands out here. It’s built specifically to help people who get overwhelmed by too many tools. Why it works:

• No need for tags or folders—just talk or type naturally
• AI understands your intent and turns it into action
• Helps you follow through, not just collect information
• Works with messy notes and scattered thoughts

It feels like a brain that gets yours.

11. What are the tips and strategies to manage ADHD?

If you have adult ADHD, you probably take medicine to ease your symptoms. But alongside it, there are strategies and tips to manage ADHD without medication.

Check out:

• • 5 Effective Strategies to Manage ADHD without medication
  • 7 Effective Note-Taking Strategies for Individuals with ADHD

12. How do people with ADHD create a better lifestyle?

People with ADHD can greatly enhance their symptoms and overall well-being by embracing a healthy lifestyle.

This includes getting plenty of sleep, engaging in regular exercise, eating nutritious meals, and adopting effective stress management techniques.

Below is a summary of ways to support a healthy lifestyle that you can refer to:

• • 7 Tips to Create an ADHD-Friendly Environment for your Mind
  • 3 Beneficial & Simple Exercises For ADHD
  • How Does Caffeine Affect ADHD?

Stay on top of your work and life with an ADHD app

Try Saner.AI for free