5 Best Apps to Lock Android Phone Screen

Have you ever felt annoyed because someone kept flicking through your phone? It could be a friend, a relative, or even your partner. This behaviour can actually disturb your privacy. That is why you may need a lock screen app that feels more secure than the default screen lock on your phone.

An unlocked screen can also lead to problems. When your phone is in a bag, the screen may hit other objects and open apps or run commands without your knowledge.

Other than the built-in features, several reliable apps can lock the screen of your Android phone or tablet. Here are some recommendations from us.

1. Screen Lock – Time Password

Screen Lock - Time Password has several security methods. By default, you can set a PIN. The Pro version includes extra features such as fingerprint support and an intruder selfie that captures a photo of anyone who tries to unlock your phone without permission.

The app also supports appearance customization. You can change the wallpaper, adjust the style of the “slide to unlock” text, and pick a PIN button theme. You can preview each setting before applying it.

The app includes a private Vault for storing secret photos or videos directly inside the app without using separate storage. There is also a private browser that allows safe and anonymous browsing. You don't need to install multiple apps for similar security tools.

What I like about Screen Lock – Time Password:

• Many security options
• Can change wallpaper, text, and PIN button theme
• Private Vault for confidential files
• Private browser for secure browsing
• Lock screen preview available

One thing to note:

• Some key features are only in the Pro version

2. Gesture Lock Screen

Just like the name, Gesture Lock Screen lets you unlock your phone by drawing a unique pattern. You can create custom gestures such as the letter L or other shapes that act as your password.

For safety, the app provides an alternative PIN for situations when you forget the main gesture. This prevents you from getting locked out of your own phone.

You can adjust the gesture color with RGB settings to create the pattern style you prefer. For extra privacy, you can activate the Invisible Gesture option so your gesture doesn't appear on the screen when drawn.

The app also includes an option to use a live wallpaper video as your lock screen background. Based on my test, this feature no longer works properly. You can also choose unlock animations such as slide, hover, or fade to personalize the lock screen.

Despite its many features, the app remains simple. The interface is neat and easy to follow, although it does not include a custom theme.

Things I like about Gesture Lock Screen:

• Unique gesture-based unlocking
• Alternative PIN for backup security
• RGB gesture colour settings
• Invisible Gesture option for higher privacy
• Unlock animations available

Things to note:

• Live wallpaper video feature seems to be broken
• No extra themes for appearance customisation

3. Lock Screen by HighSecure

Lock Screen by HighSecure is a minimalist app with two main security options. You can use a PIN or fingerprint for free. Activation is simple and easy. Slide the toggle inside the app and allow permission to change the system settings. The lock system will activate and you can set your PIN.

Besides screen protection, the app offers a collection of free wallpapers with many themes. You can find 3D, anime, landscape, space, sunrise, ocean, and several other categories. Each wallpaper appears sharp and visually pleasing.

The most annoying part of this app is the number of ads. Almost every time I finished using a feature, a new ad appeared. Even so, the app remains enjoyable because of its clean and minimalist design.

Things I like about Lock Screen by HighSecure:

• All security methods are free
• Large wallpaper collection with sharp quality
• Simple and easy interface
• No confusing extra features

Things to note:

• Adverts appear after almost every action
• No advanced security options

4. KLCK Custom Lock Screen Maker

If you want a lock screen that feels unique and personalized, KLCK Custom Lock Screen Maker is worth trying. It's not just another lock screen app because it gives you full control to create your own design from scratch.

The creation process feels similar to basic photo editing. You can add layers, select background colours, and apply simple animations to make the lock screen look more dynamic.

The editing tools are quite standard, but they are enough for creating a personalised look. If you prefer something quick, you can use the built-in presets. You can customise the clock, notifications, date text, and weather information with ease.

The biggest drawback in my opinion is the lack of a proper guide. When I tested the app, I had trouble figuring out how to add items and apply the lock screen I created.

What I like about KLCK Custom Lock Screen Maker:

• Can create a lock screen from scratch
• Editing tools include layers, colors, and animations
• Built-in presets are easy to customize
• Great for creative users who want a different look

One thing to note:

• New users may feel confused because there is no tutorial

5. iLock

First off, the app showed many ads the moment I opened it, even before I reached the main features. iLock focuses on visuals rather than security. The main attraction lies in its lock screen themes, widgets, and wallpapers. You can choose from various designs to improve the look of your lock screen.

For security, the app provides two basic options, PIN and pattern. Before you set a password, the app asks you to download the wallpaper or theme you want. After that, iLock will let you create your PIN or pattern.

What I like about iLock:

• Large collection of themes and wallpapers
• Wallpaper installation works directly with the PIN setup
• Simple and lightweight interface

Things to note:

• Not focused on security
• Adverts appear very often, even before the features unlock

The built-in screen lock on your smartphone is usually effective. Even so, these Android screen lock apps provide different lock methods and extra features that you may not get from the default settings. Which one would you like to try?