Vibecode Opal

track this build5 steps, step by step
KINDA · weekend project
price $8.33/moyou'd save $99.96/yrbuild time multi-daycategory ⚙️ productivity utilitiesreplaced by 0 people

The visible screen-time control loop is buildable, but a credible replacement needs more than the first screen. Opal earns its keep through polish, OS integration, so expect a weekend or multi-day build and a narrower personal scope.

the project pack4 files · fastest path to a working personal build
README.md
# Opal indie build

## Goal

Build the smallest trustworthy replacement for the core Opal workflow for one developer or a tiny team.

## Scope

Build a local desktop utility that captures the essential screen-time control workflow with keyboard-first controls and local storage.

## Quick start

1. Install the documented dependencies.
2. Copy `.env.example` to `.env`.
3. Run the development command chosen during implementation.
4. Complete the acceptance checks in `BUILD_PLAN.md`.

## Honest limits

This build deliberately does not replace:
- cross-device sync
- deep operating-system edge-case coverage
- polished shortcuts and accessibility
- vendor-maintained updates

If those capabilities are essential, use ActivityWatch instead of pretending the gap is solved.

$ choose a build depth, inspect the files, then open the complete pack in your agent · this prompt is generated from the build plan · improve it via PR

why people still pay

Opal: People keep paying because a utility used dozens of times a day must be instant, predictable, and compatible with every OS update.

what you lose

xcross-device sync

xdeep operating-system edge-case coverage

xpolished shortcuts and accessibility

xvendor-maintained updates

share on X ↗"I just replaced Opal ($8.33/mo) with one prompt"
the escape hatch

Don't feel like building it? These folks already made it free.

Apple Screen TimeBuilt-in Apple limits with passcodes and device sync; less stubborn, but genuinely free.$0freeScreenZenThe hardened blocker without the subscription: delays, limits, strict sessions, and cross-device apps.$0free

no votes, no pay-to-list · just what's real

the numbers

Opal pricing

planmonthlyannual (per mo)what you get
free$0/user$0/user1 blocking rule; basic timers and soundscapes; Screen Time Score limited to today.
pro$19.99/user$8.33/userUnlimited blocking rules and the full Pro feature set.
pro lifetimecustomLifetime Pro access.
teamscustomCustom team administration and deployment; no public price or numeric limits.

free tier1 blocking rule; basic timers and soundscapes; Screen Time Score shows today only.

billingannual + lifetime; a $19.99 'Monthly' option is displayed, but the same official panel says $239 billed annually

hidden costsStudent pricing is up to 50% off. Direct Stripe purchases have a 30-day refund policy, while Opal cannot refund Apple-billed purchases. The public monthly-panel billing copy is contradictory.

verified 2026-08-14 · source ↗

questions
Vibecode Opal

Kinda. The core of Opal is buildable in a weekend with the prompt on this page, but there are real gaps: cross-device sync, deep operating-system edge-case coverage. Read the honest list above before committing.

How much does Opal cost?

Opal costs about $8.33/month (Pro, checked 2026-07-31), which is $99.96000000000001 per year.

What do I lose by replacing Opal?

Honestly: cross-device sync; deep operating-system edge-case coverage; polished shortcuts and accessibility; vendor-maintained updates. If any of those are load-bearing for you, keep paying.

Is there an open-source alternative to Opal?

Yes: Apple Screen Time (Built-in Apple limits with passcodes and device sync; less stubborn, but genuinely free.) ScreenZen (The hardened blocker without the subscription: delays, limits, strict sessions, and cross-device apps.) The prompt is for when you want it exactly your way.