DisplayBuddy vs LG OnScreen Control

DisplayBuddy controls supported external monitor settings from a Mac menu bar or Windows taskbar. Depending on the display, it can adjust brightness, contrast, speaker volume, input source, resolution, and rotation. The Mac app uses DDC for hardware control and can use gamma dimming when a monitor does not respond. The maker says it also controls supported LG webOS and Samsung Tizen smart monitors over Wi-Fi. Users can save presets and synchronize brightness across displays. On Mac, presets can be scheduled by sunrise, sunset, time of day, charger state, or connected display; the app also supports Shortcuts, Siri, a command-line interface, and MCP. The Windows app supports Windows 10 and 11, with presets, hotkeys, input switching, and resolution and refresh-rate controls. Personal costs $24.99, paid once for one Mac, Pro costs $29.99, paid once for up to two Macs, and Family costs $49.99, paid once for up to five Macs; each includes lifetime access. There is no free plan, but a 7-day trial is available. Core controls work offline after internet-based license activation.

LG OnScreen Control is a desktop utility for managing features on certain LG monitors from Windows or macOS. It offers Screen Split, which divides the display into regions, and controls for brightness, contrast, and other monitor settings. My application Preset can change picture mode when you click a chosen application window, while Game mode settings let you adjust game-related monitor settings. The 5:9 Preview feature displays an application in a 5:9 area that you can move to a preferred position. The app can also update monitor firmware. A USB connection is required for settings and firmware updates; firmware updates also need internet access and a supported USB cable. Support depends on the monitor model, so LG advises checking its owner’s manual. The app does not support the PC’s Duplicate display setting; LG advises using Extend mode if its menu does not appear. A non-genuine cable or adapter can prevent DDC/CI communication, and using a third-party monitor may limit some features. The download is free for supported models.