LG OnScreen Control vs Lunar

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.

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.