30 October 2026 · Written by Tendercraft, maker of Still-Lane
Windows screen time: Still-Lane, StayFree and ActivityWatch
Still-Lane suits people who want local app-time reports and reminders they can override. ActivityWatch offers free, open-source tracking with more detailed window and browser watchers. StayFree advertises cross-device usage reports and app or website blocking. Decide first whether you want awareness, detailed activity records or enforced limits.
| What matters | Still-Lane | StayFree | ActivityWatch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Getting started | 15-day Microsoft Store trial, then an optional one-time purchase. | Vendor offers a free download; check platform-specific terms. | Free and open source. |
| Recorded detail | Foreground app duration with active and idle time. Browser time counts as one app. | Vendor advertises app and website usage reports across devices. | Window watcher records app and window title; an optional browser extension adds tab information. |
| Limits and focus | Daily budgets and focus sessions provide reminders; they never block or close apps. | Vendor advertises scheduled blocks and app/site limits; confirm support on your device. | Primarily an activity recorder and reporting tool; check available integrations for other workflows. |
| Data choice | Records stay on the PC. No window titles, websites, keystrokes or screenshots are recorded. | Read the current privacy policy and cross-device settings for your setup. | Core tracking data stays local; choose and configure watchers for the detail you want. |
Choose the level of detail deliberately
If you only need total time per program, Still-Lane avoids collecting window titles and website addresses. That also means it cannot separate work sites from distracting sites inside one browser. ActivityWatch is worth comparing when that extra detail matters. Its watcher documentation explains what each component records, so review the enabled watchers before using it with sensitive work.
Try a normal working day
Use the Still-Lane trial on a typical day, review active and idle totals, and set a small app budget. Collection begins after consent and can be paused. CSV/JSON export and deletion controls are included. Choose a blocking tool such as StayFree if reminders you can override are insufficient. Still-Lane is a self-management app and does not provide parental control or employer monitoring.