ddcctl vs Lunar

ddcctl is a free GPLv3 open-source command-line utility for adjusting external monitor controls from the macOS shell. Its primary controls are brightness and contrast. Depending on monitor firmware, it may also switch input source, change built-in speaker volume or RGB colors, select color presets, and reset settings. The stated scope is macOS, Macintosh hardware, and DDC-controlled monitors. Installation is available through Homebrew, downloadable release binaries, or a source build; building requires Xcode and running make. Example scripts can be invoked by Alfred, ControlPlane, or Karabiner to switch presets. The project describes itself as a personal utility in maintenance mode and asks users to debug their own issues. Its maker says there is no time to triage new issues or support non-bugs, and no support or discussion forum is planned. Verification is manual, with no CI connected to real Macs and monitors. The releases page lists v1 as the latest release. The listed controls include DDC/CI, input switching, and command-line access.

Lunar is a macOS app for controlling monitors, including external monitor brightness, volume and input. On compatible monitors it uses DDC to send brightness and input commands directly. Manual Mode provides hotkeys for external-monitor adjustments, while Sync Mode copies the MacBook’s adaptive brightness changes to external displays. Sensor Mode adjusts brightness and contrast using an external ambient light sensor; Location Mode responds to the sun’s position. Clock Mode schedules changes by time or by sunrise, noon or sunset. Pro features include XDR Brightness, sub-zero dimming, Auto BlackOut, BlackOut and FaceLight. Lunar also works with macOS Shortcuts and includes a command-line interface for monitor automation. It supports macOS 11 and later and runs natively on Apple Silicon and Intel. When DDC is unavailable, Gamma can dim a display but cannot change its volume or input. The free version permits 100 Manual Mode adjustments and 100 Shortcuts action calls per day. Lunar Pro costs $23.00 USD as a lifetime license.