BetterDisplay vs MonitorControl

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.

MonitorControl is a free macOS app for controlling external display brightness, volume, and contrast while showing native macOS on-screen displays. It supports DDC on external monitors, Apple protocols on Apple and built-in displays, gamma-table dimming, and shade control for AirPlay, Sidecar, DisplayLink, and other virtual screens. Brightness can transition smoothly or dim to full black. Standard Apple brightness and media keys work, and custom shortcuts are available. Multiple displays can be synchronized with one slider or shortcuts, including copying brightness changes from built-in or Apple displays to non-Apple screens. Dozens of customization options are provided, with more under “Show advanced settings.” MonitorControl is free, with no trial, and runs on macOS. Version 4.0.0 lists Catalina 10.15 as its baseline; full functionality is available on macOS 11 Big Sur or newer. The latest listed release is v4.4.0.