KolBo Filter vs GenTech
If you're looking into professional iPhone filtering for your family, GenTech is one of the names you'll come across. They're an established provider in the frum community, and they offer a legitimate filtering service. But not all filtering services are identical, and the differences matter — especially when you're committing to a monthly subscription.
This is a factual, feature-by-feature comparison of KolBo Filter and GenTech to help you make an informed decision.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | KolBo Filter | GenTech |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Apple Supervised Mode | Supervised Mode / MDM |
| VPN Blocking | Yes — system level | Yes |
| Private Browsing Disabled | Yes — permanent | Yes |
| App Restriction | Full control — custom allowlist | Managed app list |
| Monthly Price | $12.99/mo or $129/yr | Varies by plan |
| Walk-In Setup (Brooklyn) | $49 | Varies by location |
| House Calls Available | Yes — $99 | Varies |
| Torah App Included | Yes — full KolBo app (695K+ shiurim) | No |
| Transparent Pricing | Published on website | Contact for quote |
The Technology
Both KolBo Filter and GenTech use Apple's supervised mode framework to filter iPhones. This is the right foundation — supervised mode is the only technology on iOS that provides tamper-proof, permanent restrictions. Any service using supervised mode has a solid technical starting point.
The differences between services using the same underlying technology come down to configuration, service quality, pricing, and what else is included with the subscription. The filter itself is only part of the equation.
Pricing and Transparency
KolBo Filter publishes its pricing openly: $12.99 per month or $129 per year. Walk-in setup in Brooklyn costs $49. House calls across the tri-state area cost $99. There are no tiers, no hidden fees, and no need to call for a quote. You know exactly what you're paying before you walk in the door.
GenTech's pricing varies by plan and location. Some information is available on their website, but specifics often require reaching out directly. Neither approach is wrong — but transparent pricing makes comparison shopping easier and eliminates surprises.
What's Included Beyond the Filter
This is where the services differ most. KolBo Filter includes full access to the KolBo app with every subscription. That means over 695,000 Torah shiurim from major sources, Zmanim, a Tefila Companion with 37 tefilos and 195 segulos, a Digital Library, Minyan Finder, Shabbos Planner, and more — 13 tools built specifically for the frum community.
GenTech provides a filtering service. It's a good filtering service, and it does what it's designed to do. But it's exclusively a filter. When you subscribe to KolBo Filter, your phone doesn't just lose access to harmful content — it gains access to a Torah platform that makes the device actively useful for avodas Hashem.
The value proposition is straightforward: for a comparable monthly price, KolBo Filter gives you filtering plus a comprehensive Torah app. The filter removes. The app adds. Both are included in the same subscription.
Service and Setup
KolBo Filter operates out of Brooklyn with walk-in availability and house calls across the tri-state area — Lakewood, Monsey, Flatbush, Far Rockaway, Passaic, and beyond. Setup is handled by a technician in about 15 minutes, with no data loss.
GenTech operates with multiple locations and service options. They've been in the community for a while and have built relationships accordingly. When choosing between services, availability in your area and the quality of customer support are worth considering alongside features and pricing.
Making the Right Choice
Both KolBo Filter and GenTech offer legitimate, supervised-mode-based iPhone filtering. The technical foundation is similar. The question is which service offers more value for your money and which better fits your family's needs.
If you want a filter with transparent pricing, a Torah platform included at no extra cost, and professional setup in Brooklyn or via house call, KolBo Filter is built for exactly that. You get the same enterprise-grade filtering technology, plus an app that turns your iPhone into a tool for learning and growth.
Ready to Filter Your iPhone?
Call (718) 971-4311 or email yisrael@kolboapp.com to get started.
Walk-in setup in Brooklyn: $49. House calls available: $99.
$12.99/month or $129/year. Full KolBo app access included.