BetterDisplay vs ClickMonitorDDC

BetterDisplay is a macOS app for managing display brightness, resolution, color, and connections. It can provide flexible HiDPI scaling for internal and natively connected external displays, and create virtual screens with different aspect ratios and resolutions. XDR and HDR brightness upscaling is available, though support depends on the Mac and display. Picture in Picture windows can show physical displays or virtual screens, and the app can capture selected windows or groups. Compatible connections support DDC hardware control and HDMI-CEC; network control is listed for LG webOS, Samsung Tizen, Philips Android TV, and Yamaha AVR. Automation options include macOS Shortcuts, command-line access, custom URLs, HTTP, notifications, and scripts. The app is free for non-business users after the 14-day trial, but Pro features require a license. BetterDisplay Pro costs $21.99, paid once for a perpetual license for covered versions and includes at least one year of updates. Businesses need a Pro license after the trial even for free functionality. Compatibility varies with the Mac, macOS version, display, and connection.

ClickMonitorDDC is a free Windows utility for controlling external monitor settings through DDC/CI. Depending on monitor support, it can adjust brightness, contrast, speaker volume, RGB gains, and color temperature. Multiple displays can be controlled independently or have settings synchronized. Controls include tray options, hotkeys, and the mouse wheel; shortcuts switch profiles, while command-line arguments or hotkeys can automate adjustments and profile changes. The listed Windows versions are 7, 8, 10, and 11, and the monitor must have DDC/CI enabled. Some laptop displays may restrict DDC/CI, and some monitors may not support every setting. The download is a portable app that runs without formal installation. The privacy policy says the software runs locally and does not collect, transmit, or store personal data from the computer, monitor, or hardware configuration. It separately says the website may collect browsing data and use cookies. The utility is described as intended for professionals, gamers, and everyday users who want monitor controls.