10 Best Apps to Lock Apps on Android Phones

Worried that someone might sneak a peek at your private apps? Don’t stress! App locker tools can help protect your privacy with just a few taps.

These apps add an extra layer of security by locking access to apps like WhatsApp, Gallery, Email, and more using a PIN, pattern, or even fingerprint. Curious to know which ones are worth trying? Here’s our list of the best app lockers for Android.

1. Applock Pro by Applock LLC

AppLock Pro by AppLock LLC is a well-known app that offers several lock options, including 4-digit and 6-digit PINs, line patterns, and even knock codes.

When I tried it, I used the knock code—it was my first time using this kind of lock, and I found it quite fun. AppLock Pro automatically locked apps that hold my personal information, like social media, gallery, and photo editing apps.

You’ll also see a list of unlocked apps, which you can easily manage by tapping the lock icon next to each one. It’s simple to switch between locked and unlocked.

The app also includes some powerful advanced features. One of my favorites is the Spy Camera, which secretly snaps a photo if someone enters the wrong password. There’s also a Fake Crash Messenger—a clever tool that makes the locked app appear to have crashed when someone tries to open it.

If you’re looking for an app locker with strong security features, AppLock Pro is definitely worth considering.

What I like:

• Offers multiple lock methods
• Automatically locks apps with personal data
• Easy customization of locked/unlocked apps
• Rich in advanced settings with strong security options

2. HideU

HideU is an app locker that disguises itself as a calculator—so well, in fact, that I was fooled when I first opened it! It looks just like a regular calculator until you enter a 4-digit code, which then unlocks the real app.

Once inside, you can select which apps to lock. HideU also suggests a few high-risk apps to lock, but it mostly recommends apps that are commonly used rather than ones with sensitive data.

Beyond app locking, HideU offers a bunch of extra features like file storage, private photo and video folders, a notes section, a private browser, a secret camera, and even secure file transfers. Pretty impressive, right?

What I like:

• Disguised as a calculator for added privacy
• Can lock multiple apps on your phone
• Includes useful features for keeping personal data safe

One thing to note:

• Ads appear frequently, which can be a bit annoying

3. AppLock by SpSoft

What makes AppLock by SpSoft stand out is its gesture lock feature. Unlike the typical pattern lock that uses dots, this one lets you draw any shape or symbol on a blank screen—like a letter or number—as your password.

However, the app is strict. Even a tiny difference in your gesture means the app won’t unlock, so it’s important to draw your gesture the same way every time.

Another standout feature is its remote control function, which is incredibly useful if your phone is ever lost or stolen. You can send a command—usually via SMS or a linked account—to lock all important apps on your phone remotely, making it harder for anyone to access your data.

What I like:

• Gesture lock offers a unique and secure way to protect apps
• Remote control feature lets you lock apps even if your phone is lost
• You can set different passwords for different apps
• Clean, user-friendly design with simple tutorials

One thing to note:

• It doesn’t automatically detect and lock apps containing personal data—you’ll need to manually choose which ones to lock

4. Xlock

Did you know that InShot Inc., the developer behind many popular apps, also has its own app locker? It’s called Xlock—and it's more than just your average locking tool.

When you launch Xlock for the first time, it will prompt you to create a PIN or pattern. This will serve as the main key to access any apps you decide to lock.

Once that’s set, you’ll be asked to select which apps you want to protect. Xlock even gives you some recommendations to start with before bringing you to the main dashboard.

Here, you can view and manage your list of locked and unlocked apps. Adjusting this list is as easy as tapping the lock icon next to each app.

What sets Xlock apart is its “Prevent Uninstall” option. This is especially helpful if you have young children at home. With this feature enabled, kids won’t be able to accidentally uninstall your apps—keeping both your data and your settings safe.

Besides app locking, Xlock also includes a Vault feature, where you can securely store private photos and videos. In short, Xlock is a solid choice from InShot if you’re looking to maintain your phone’s privacy.

What I like about Xlock:

• Offers common lock types, plus fingerprint and Face ID
• Has a “Prevent Uninstall” feature—great for households with kids
• Includes a Vault for storing private media

One thing to note:

• The app has frequent ads that can be distracting

5. AppLock by KewlApps

AppLock by KewlApps keeps things simple. Besides locking apps, it includes just one additional feature: a Vault to hide photos, videos, and other files on your phone. Because it avoids unnecessary extras, the app runs smoothly and doesn’t drain your battery.

However, unlike some other apps, it doesn’t suggest which apps you should lock. You’ll need to choose them manually.

That said, the app does come with a few clever advanced options. One standout feature is the ability to disguise the AppLock icon, making it appear as a calculator, calendar, clock, notes, or weather app—helping you keep it hidden from prying eyes.

What I like about this app:

• Clean and focused design with no unnecessary features
• Includes a Vault to hide files and media
• Offers full access to all features for free
• Provides strong lock options and flexible settings
• Allows you to disguise the app icon for added privacy

One thing to note:

• Does not recommend apps to lock—you’ll have to select them manually

6. AppLock by SailingLab

Despite the frequent pop-up ads, AppLock by SailingLab is another decent option for protecting your apps. It supports basic lock types—PIN, pattern, and fingerprint—but adds convenience with its One-Tap Lock system, letting you quickly secure any app with a single tap.

A unique feature in this app is the Lucky Number. This optional security step helps you regain access in case you forget your password or enter it incorrectly.

You can also personalize the app’s appearance by choosing from various themes. Whether you like animated visuals, scenic landscapes, or cute emoji designs, there are many options to explore—especially if you upgrade to a VIP membership.

What I like about this app:

• Includes a unique Lucky Number feature for password recovery
• Allows theme customization for a more personal look
• One-Tap Lock makes app protection quick and easy

Things to note:

• Pop-up ads appear frequently
• Some features are locked behind a VIP membership

7. Ultra AppLock by ABXZ Inc.

When setting up Ultra AppLock for the first time, you'll be asked to create a password and choose which apps to lock. You'll also need to set up a security question—handy in case you ever forget your password.

Ultra AppLock keeps things simple. It offers basic features like intrusion detection, fake crash alerts, fake icons, and even a phone cleaner. While it doesn’t have many advanced settings, it’s incredibly user-friendly—even for beginners. Just note that, for now, the app is only available in English.

What I like about this app:

• Very easy to use, even for first-time users
• Recommends which apps to lock right away
• Includes a security question for password recovery
• All features are available for free

One thing to note:

• The app is currently only available in English

8. AppLock by IVYMOBILE

Unlike most lock apps that only ask you to set a password and select apps to lock, AppLock by IVYMOBILE also lets you choose a theme at the start. While it only offers two options, this is a rare feature among similar apps.

The app is simple and lightweight, with just two core features: Fake Cover, which disguises the app, and Intruder Selfie, which takes a photo of anyone who fails to unlock it. This minimal setup keeps the app size small and easy to run.

If you’re after a basic app locker without all the extra frills, this one might be a good fit.

What I like about this app:

• Offers theme selection right from the start
• Very straightforward and simple design
• Doesn’t take up much storage space

One thing to note:

• Occasionally, banner ads may interfere with the password layout

9. AppLock by PIPS Tech

AppLock by PIPS Tech stands out for its risk-based recommendations. It suggests which apps you should lock based on how sensitive they are, which makes it easier to prioritize your app protection.

Besides locking apps, it also offers several privacy-focused features, such as a private browser that automatically deletes your browsing history and a file vault for storing personal data. You’ll also find a phone cleaner and even a built-in game collection.

Interestingly, this game feature is meant to act as a fun gateway—requiring you to play a short game to unlock certain apps. However, during my test, the games didn’t appear. Still, AppLock by PIPS Tech is a great choice for users who want privacy tools beyond basic app locking.

What I like about this app:

• Suggests apps to lock based on their risk level
• Includes a private browser and file vault for added privacy
• Comes with a phone cleaner tool

One thing to note:

• The game feature didn’t appear during testing

10. AppLock Master by Sepber

AppLock Master doesn’t recommend which apps to lock—it gives you full control to choose them yourself. While its core security features are fairly standard, the app does let you disguise its icon as a calculator or clock. Though useful, this feature feels a bit limited compared to others.

That said, I appreciated the range of themes and lock screen customizations. You can pick from several background styles, hide or show app names, and adjust the animation of the lock screen itself.

While it may not offer anything groundbreaking in terms of security, its strong focus on visual customization sets it apart.

What I like about this app:

• Covers the basics of app locking well
• Offers various lock screen themes
• Includes detailed theme customization options

One thing to note:

• Some features are more limited compared to similar apps

That wraps up our list of the best app lockers for Android, curated by Carisinyal. Each app brings something different to the table—whether it’s simplicity, added privacy tools, or fun customization features.

Choose the one that best fits your needs, and if you have your own recommendations, feel free to share them in the comments!