Simple CountFacts about the other app come from its own US App Store listing, checked on 17 October 2026. We make Simple Count, so read this with that in mind; tap through to the App Store before you buy. See all apps side by side on our comparison page.
Side by side
| Simple Count | Countdown Star | |
|---|---|---|
| Ads | None | Yes in the free version |
| Home Screen widgets | Free, small to large | Small, medium, large |
| Lock Screen widgets | Free | Not listed |
| Live Activities and Dynamic Island | Free | Not listed |
| Paid option | Pro $4.99 one-time | Remove Ads purchase, or the ad-free app ($1.99) |
| Apple Watch | Free: watch face, Smart Stack, app | Yes |
Where Countdown Star is better
It has time zone support for each event, celebration animations and a long track record.
Where Simple Count is better
No ads in the free app, a privacy label of "Data Not Collected", Lock Screen widgets and a Live Activity for timed events, shared countdowns that stay in sync for everyone, notes with checklists, and Apple Watch, all free.
Questions
Is there a free countdown app without ads?
Yes. Simple Count is free with no ads and no subscription, and every widget is included. Pro is an optional one-time purchase.