Disclosure: we make Eye Yoga. We name the cases where another app is stronger, and nobody paid for placement.
Why look beyond DeskRest?
DeskRest tells you when to rest, but it does not guide your eyes once the break starts. It needs macOS 14.2 or later and costs from $24.99, while Eye Yoga is free. If you want a break that does something, that is the gap Eye Yoga fills.
Five alternatives at a glance
| App | Best for | Price | Runs on | Guided eye exercises |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Eye Yoga | Guided eye exercises from the menu bar | Free | Mac | Yes, 10 movements |
 LookAway | Smart breaks that work around meetings | $19 one time | Mac, iPhone, iPad | No, blink and posture prompts |
 Time Out | Deep scheduling and custom break screens | Free, optional tips | Mac | No, custom break screens |
 Stretchly | Free open source breaks on any desktop | Free | Mac, Windows, Linux | No, text break ideas |
 BreakTimer | Simple free reminders with working hours | Free | Mac, Windows, Linux | No, custom messages |
Prices checked October 15, 2026.
Our pick, and the rest
Our pick
Eye Yoga Exercises for Strain
Guided eye exercises from the menu bar
- Guided, not just a timer. Ten eye movements, 15 to 60 seconds each.
- Free. No subscription and no account.
- Private. No ads and no behavioral analytics.
- Native Mac. Menu bar, VoiceOver, Reduce Motion, macOS 12 or later.
Other options
LookAway
Smart breaks that work around meetings. $19 one time.
Time Out
Deep scheduling and custom break screens. Free, optional tips.
Stretchly
Free open source breaks on any desktop. Free.
BreakTimer
Simple free reminders with working hours. Free.
Questions
What is the best DeskRest alternative?
Eye Yoga is the best alternative for guided visual movements. The best overall choice depends on whether you value smart timing, customization, cost, or cross platform support.
Is there a free alternative?
Time Out has a free core. Stretchly and BreakTimer are free and open source.
Which alternative includes guided eye movements?
Eye Yoga includes ten designed visual movements. Other tools focus more on break timing, messages, themes, or user created routines.
Sources and checking date
Product features and prices come from each app's official website and store listing, checked on October 15, 2026. Prices, trials, and operating system requirements can change.
Eye Yoga Exercises for Strain
A guided visual pause, ready from your menu bar.
Ten guided movements, adjustable 15 to 60 second sessions, no account, and no subscription. Check the current Mac App Store price before downloading.
Mac App Store