Qustodio VS Bark

Key Differences

• Core Functionality: Qustodio delivers robust parental controls with web filtering, app blocking, screen time management, location tracking, internet pause, and detailed activity reports. It also includes call/text monitoring on supported devices, which is available only on Android due to iOS restrictions. Bark focuses on monitoring for concerning content—such as cyberbullying, self-harm, and online predators—across social media, messaging apps, emails, photos, and videos, with more emphasis on alerts than direct control.
• Monitoring Approach: Qustodio uses real-time tracking and device-level enforcement to block content and manage time limits, providing comprehensive scheduled reports. Bark uses AI-based content scanning to identify only potentially risky activity, allowing for less invasive monitoring while still alerting parents to critical issues.
• Coverage & Compatibility: Qustodio supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Kindle, and Chromebook devices, with feature availability varying by operating system. Bark works on Android, iOS, Amazon devices, and Chromebook (via Bark for Schools or Bark Premium), and integrates with 30+ social media platforms and email providers.
• Alerts & Reporting: Qustodio generates daily, weekly, and monthly reports detailing app usage, websites visited, search terms, and location history. Bark delivers real-time alerts with context when its scanning detects concerning activity, along with suggested actions for parents.
• Pricing Model: Qustodio offers a free basic tier and paid plans—such as Basic (around $43/year) and Complete (around $89/year)—that scale by the number of devices covered. Bark offers Bark Jr. ($5/month or $49/year) for screen time and location features, Bark Premium ($14/month or $99/year) for full monitoring, and a Bark Watch device with separate pricing.