Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Focus@Will

$9.95/month

Focus@Will is a unique music service that uses scientifically optimized music to boost concentration and productivity. It offers playlists tailored to different types of work and personal focus profiles.

Our take

Boost your focus with custom music playlists.

Alright, so Focus@Will is this music service that’s supposed to help you concentrate better. I gave it a whirl because, honestly, I’m always on the lookout for something that’ll help me plow through my to-do list without getting sidetracked. The idea is that they offer music scientifically designed to keep you focused. Sounds fancy, right? But, let’s keep it real—does it actually make a difference? Well, it kind of depends on what you’re into and how easily distracted you are.

The app’s got a bunch of different channels, each with its own vibe, like classical, up-tempo, or even something called “Alpha Chill.” I tried a few, and I’ll admit, I did find myself zoning in more than usual. But, here’s the thing: if you’re not into the music style, it might do more harm than good. Some tracks felt a bit too repetitive for my liking, and instead of helping me focus, I ended up obsessing over the loops. So, it’s really about finding what works for your brain.

Now, let’s talk about the interface. It’s straightforward, which is nice because you don’t want to be fussing with settings when you’re trying to get stuff done. You just pick a channel, hit play, and let it roll. However, I did notice that occasionally, it felt like the variety within channels wasn’t that wide. You might hear similar-sounding tracks back-to-back, which can get a bit tedious. If you’re someone who needs constant variety to stay engaged, this might be a sticking point.

Is it worth the price tag? That’s a tough call. It’s not crazy expensive, but it’s also not pocket change, especially if you’re already paying for other music services. If you’re someone who struggles with focus and finds most music too distracting, it might be a worthwhile investment. But, if you’re just looking for a little background noise, you might be better off with a good old YouTube playlist or something free. The value really hinges on how much you think specialized music can help you.

Overall, Focus@Will is an intriguing concept, and it does have potential if you’re the right fit for it. I’d say give the free trial a shot and see how it meshes with your work style. But remember, no magic bullet will turn you into a productivity machine if you’re not already in that zone. It’s a tool, not a miracle worker. At the end of the day, it’s about finding what clicks for you and your workflow. So, take it for a spin with a healthy dose of skepticism and see where you land.

Free with Premium options

Free and Paid Plans

$15/user/month

$59.99/year