Gambling Blocking Software Compared: Gamban, BetBlocker and What They Miss

Both Gamban and BetBlocker are multi-device gambling-blocking software, but the difference between them turns largely around cost, supported platforms, and how determined each protects against being removed from users' devices.

There is little doubt, tech-savvy gamblers will find some route around these blockers - even the pricier paid services cannot physically lock every device from Internet access. But they do provide a way to break the brakes and impose rules - like making transfers between services take hours, or uninstalling a social media site. Without such tools (especially paired with other support) this is psychologically harder.

# What are gambling blockers designed for?

Both Gamban and BetBlocker are focused on blocking access to betting and gambling sites and apps, rather than controlling general web use like a typical parental control product would. They are designed to provide support for individuals trying to limit or cut out access to these types of content to curb excessive gambling behavior.

Gamban offers a suite of tools including blocking access to gambling sites, progress monitoring, layered self-exclusion, access to gambling-related resources, exclusive discounts, and on-demand technical support. It aims to be a comprehensive solution for those seeking to control or stop their gambling habits.

On the other hand, BetBlocker is a charity-run service that provides a simpler, free blocking tool. It has essentially one core feature: blocking access to gambling websites for the specified duration of the lockout period. This period can be set by the user, allowing for flexibility in how long the blocks should be enforced.

From a technical perspective, both tools cover a broad range of platforms. Gamban is available on Android, iOS/ iPadOS, macOS, and Windows. It also mentions supporting older operating system versions, with the minimum being Android 6.0, iOS 9.0, macOS 10.10, and Windows Vista SP2..

# How much do Gamban and BetBlocker cost?

The pricing for these tools is another key differentiator in the comparison. Gamban operates on a subscription model, with a monthly subscription priced at $6.99 and an annual subscription priced at $41.99. This pricing is clearly outlined on its official pricing page and aligns with the subscription model commonly associated with paid gamble-block software. (Gamban's pricing page)

This cost qualifies as expensive by the standards of digital services, and is comparable to content streaming services many users will be willing to switch off if they are in harm's-perpetrating mode and don't want to pay. However, Gamban notes in its features that this is a comprehensive tool with extra supports.

Although a monthly subscription has no realistic cost comparison with BetBlocker as betblocker is completely free.

# Which platforms do Gamban and BetBlocker cover?

One of the crucial aspects of gambling-blocking software is its ability to cover multiple platforms and devices. Gamban boasts compatibility across a broad spectrum of devices, including Android, iOS/ iPadOS, macOS, and Windows. This feature allows users to protect all their major internet-enabled devices from a single subscription. This is stated on Gamban's main product page - which details how it's deployed.

The versatile platform coverage is echoed by a third-party comparison site listing without a Bet blockade, that Gamban blocks access to tens of thousands of gambling sites and apps across iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac from one account (Cashout, a third-party site).

In contrast, BetBlocker also covers a similar range of devices, including iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac. Like GamBann, BetBlocker can be deployed across devices. This is described by a third-party site.

# How hard are Gamban and BetBlocker to bypass?

When considering the effectiveness of these tools, it's essential to look at how hard they are to bypass or remove once installed. Gamban is described by a third-party site as the hardest to bypass among available options. This is significant as some reports suggest a main issue with gambling blockers is attempts to remove them, which of course twists incentives of support into 'training' rather than completely free access. However, details on exactly how Gamban achieves this level of difficulty in bypass are not entirely clear from the available sources.. Meanwhile, BetBlocker offers a different approach with its lock-in feature. Users can set their own lock-in period when installing the software, providing flexibility in the duration of the block. A lock-in period means that once the chosen duration is set, it cannot be shortened or removed without waiting for the time to elapse.

However, there are some nuances to this feature. On iOS, BetBlocker does not allow early removal, meaning once the lock-in period is set, the block cannot be lifted before the specified time has passed. This is a crucial aspect for users who might be tempted to remove the block prematurely. This fact is again noted down on that same third-party comparison page.

# Extra features in Gamban

While the blocking functionality is the core feature of both tools, Gamban offers additional features that may be beneficial for those trying to curb their gambling habits. Gamban provides progress monitoring, allowing users to track how long they have remained gamble-free and how much time and money they have saved. Some may question the effectiveness of these measures, but they likely have some effect.

Additionally, Gamban offers access to gambling-related resources, exclusive discounts, and on-demand technical support. These extra features can provide support for users in their journey to control or stop their gambling behavior. The subscription cost may be a barrier for some users.

# What these tools miss

While both Gamban and BetBlocker offer robust gambling-blocking features, there are some technical aspects and support mechanisms that the available sources do not provide clear details on. For instance, the level at which these tools block access to gambling sites (DNS level, application level, or both) is not explicitly mentioned in the verified sources.

Additionally, there is no concrete information on how these tools handle various bypass routes, such as using VPNs, second devices, or accessing gambling content through alternative browsers or profiles. These are vague and excessive but touch on important areas we do not have answers to. An eager buyer would look here.

Furthermore, the sources do not provide a clear evaluation or comparison of which tool is objectively "better" in terms of effectiveness, user experience, or overall value. There's no hard-core evaluation comparing BetBlocker with Gamban.

Lastly, while both tools are helpful, it's essential to remember that blocking software is not a complete solution for addressing problem gambling. The sources mention that blockers are just one part of a more comprehensive approach, which may include bank blocks, self-exclusion schemes, device controls, and professional support. These are generally tough to come by though and quite unrealistic..

In conclusion, while Gamban and BetBlocker offer viable solutions for blocking access to gambling content, their effectiveness relies heavily on the specific devices they cover and the support systems in place. Gamban's comprehensive feature set and higher price point cater to users seeking a more complete solution, while BetBlocker's free, charity-run model offers a simpler, more flexible option. Ultimately, the "better" choice depends on the user's needs, device mix, and the level of support they require in their journey to control or stop their gambling behavior.