SMODE
smode.io
What it is
SMODE is a Windows platform for real-time visual compositing and media serving at shows and installations. It combines 2D and 3D compositing with video mapping, stage simulation, animation, and video export. Smode Live adds playback and editing tools for live operation, with support for DMX, Art-Net, sACN, LTC/MTC inputs, and people tracking systems. It can capture or output video through Deltacast and Blackmagic cards. The Community edition lists ISF and ShaderToy shaders, Substance, Python scripting, MIDI, OSC, NDI, and Spout integrations; camera tracking, LED-stage and greenscreen workflows, and live compositing are also supported. The free Community license is non-commercial and includes Full HD input, output, content, and export without watermarks. Smode Compose FHD costs €300 a year, excluding VAT, and includes commercial use and 4K video export. The FAQ specifies Microsoft 64-bit operating systems, at least Windows 10 version 18h3, and says licensing is not designed for virtual machines.
Spec sheet
- Product
- SMODE is a real-time visual compositing and media server platform for shows and installations.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Intended users
- The maker lists content creators, video operators, event organizers, rental companies, scenographers, TV production companies, and cultural institutions as intended users.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Integrations
- The Community edition lists support for ISF and ShaderToy shaders, Substance, Python scripting, MIDI, OSC, NDI, and Spout.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Support
- The FAQ describes Community Support through Discord and Premium Support with direct communication with technical teams.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Headquarters
- Paris, FranceRead 28 Sep 2026 · smode.io
- Founded
- 2019Read 28 Sep 2026 · smode.io
- Capabilities
- SMODE supports real-time 2D/3D compositing, video mapping, stage simulation, animation, and video export.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Community privacy
- The maker describes Smode Community as having no ads, no user data tracking, and no hidden cloud connections.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Company history
- Smode Tech was created in 2019 by Francis Maes and Alexandre Buge to launch SMODE on the market.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Hardware I/O
- Smode Live can capture or output video through Deltacast and Blackmagic capture cards.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Live operations
- Smode Live combines video playback capabilities with live editing tools for real-time online operations.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Live protocols
- Smode Live supports DMX, Art-Net, sACN, LTC/MTC inputs, and people tracking systems.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- System requirements
- The FAQ says SMODE runs on Microsoft 64-bit operating systems and requires at least Windows 10 version 18h3.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
- Virtual machines
- The FAQ says SMODE licensing is not designed to run on virtual machines.Read 2 Oct 2026 · smode.io
Plans and prices
Strong points and limits
Strong points
- Supports 2D/3D compositing and video mapping.
- Live protocols include DMX, Art-Net, and sACN.
- Community license includes Full HD export without watermarks.
- Compose FHD includes commercial use and 4K video export.
Limits
- Community license is non-commercial.
- Runs on Windows only.
- Licensing is not designed for virtual machines.
- Compose FHD costs €300 a year, excluding VAT.
Who it suits
SMODE suits content creators, video operators, event organizers, rental companies, scenographers, TV production companies, and cultural institutions working with live visuals or installations.
Verdict
SMODE brings compositing, mapping, and live playback tools into one Windows platform. Check the license limits and Windows requirements against the planned setup.
Where Specifiction places it
- Virtual Production Software#13 of 287.7