Comparisons

QuitNow vs Smoke Free: Which Is Better for Quitting?

By PuffBye Editorial TeamLast updated Feb 2026Based on published research from CDC, WHO & NIH

Choosing the right quit smoking app can make a significant difference in your cessation journey. QuitNow and Smoke Free are both popular options, but they take different approaches to helping users quit. QuitNow is one of the most popular cessation apps with over 10 million downloads. Smoke Free offers science-based daily missions and a comprehensive set of craving management tools. With evidence-based apps showing 20-35% quit rates, selecting the right digital tool is an important decision that should consider features, cost, evidence base, and personal preferences.

What is QuitNow?

QuitNow is one of the most popular cessation apps with over 10 million downloads. It focuses on tracking quit stats (time, money saved, health improvements) and connecting users through community chat. The app uses gamification with achievements to maintain motivation. Available on iOS and Android, QuitNow is priced at Free with ads, premium $30-50/year and has earned 4.5/5 average user rating. The app's key features include Health indicators, money saved, community chat, achievements. Basic tracking with motivational elements. Primary strengths are Large user community, simple interface, extensive health milestone tracking, though users should note Limited personalization, intrusive ads in free version, basic craving tools.

What is Smoke Free?

Smoke Free offers science-based daily missions and a comprehensive set of craving management tools. The app is based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) principles and National Health Service (NHS) guidelines. It includes detailed progress tracking and mood monitoring. Running on iOS and Android, Smoke Free costs Free with premium $50/year and maintains 4.6/5 average user rating. Core features encompass Daily missions, craving tools, mood tracking, progress statistics. Based on acceptance commitment therapy principles. Main advantages include Evidence-based approach, excellent daily missions, detailed statistics, while potential drawbacks are Premium features required for full functionality, can feel overwhelming initially.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Cost • QuitNow: Free with ads, premium $30-50/year • Smoke Free: Free with premium $50/year

Key Features • QuitNow: Health indicators, money saved • Smoke Free: Daily missions, craving tools

Evidence Base • QuitNow: Basic tracking with motivational elements • Smoke Free: Based on acceptance commitment therapy principles

User Rating • QuitNow: 4.5/5 average user rating • Smoke Free: 4.6/5 average user rating

Platforms • QuitNow: iOS and Android • Smoke Free: iOS and Android

Best For • QuitNow: Large user community • Smoke Free: Evidence-based approach

The Verdict

Both QuitNow and Smoke Free offer valuable support for quitting smoking, but they excel in different areas. QuitNow stands out for Large user community and simple interface, making it ideal for users who prioritize these features. Smoke Free excels at Evidence-based approach and excellent daily missions, better serving those who value these aspects. Consider your priorities: if health indicators and Free with ads, premium $30-50/year appeal to you, QuitNow may be the better choice. If you prefer daily missions and can work with Free with premium $50/year, Smoke Free might suit you better. Many users find success by trying multiple apps to discover which approach resonates most with their quit style.

How PuffBye Can Help

Regardless of whether you choose QuitNow or Smoke Free, PuffBye helps you track your progress, manage cravings, and stay motivated throughout your quit journey. The app works alongside any cessation method to give you real-time insights into your health recovery and money saved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which app is better for beginners: QuitNow or Smoke Free?
QuitNow offers Health indicators which can be helpful for beginners, while Smoke Free provides Daily missions. Both support new quitters, but QuitNow may be more intuitive for those wanting Large user community.
Do I need to pay for premium features?
QuitNow is Free with ads, premium $30-50/year, while Smoke Free costs Free with premium $50/year. Both offer free versions with core functionality, but premium features can enhance the experience with additional tools and content.
Which app has better evidence-based content?
QuitNow is Basic tracking with motivational elements, while Smoke Free is Based on acceptance commitment therapy principles. Both incorporate behavioral change techniques, though the specific approaches differ.

Sources & References

The information in this article is based on publicly available research and guidance from the following authoritative health organizations:

Sources accessed February 2026

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