Lunar vs Monitorian
Lunar
lunar.fyiMonitorian
monitorian.orgSide by side
| Figure | Lunar | Monitorian |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Spec score · Monitor Control Software | 7.9 (#8) | 7.1 (#21) |
| Automation | Lunar integrates with macOS Shortcuts and includes a command-line interface for controlling and automating monitors. | The FAQ says the main interface is for direct user brightness adjustments, with any additional behavior depending on the installed build. |
| Compatibility | The homepage says Lunar is compatible with macOS 11+ and runs natively on Apple Silicon and Intel. | External monitor control depends on display support, drivers, connection path, and DDC/CI being enabled where required. |
| Support | Users can contact the developer through a web form, and the contact page directs license delivery issues to the Discord server. | The site provides FAQ answers and troubleshooting checks for DDC/CI, cables, drivers, monitor detection, and connections. |
Plans
In their own words
Lunar
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.
Monitorian
Monitorian has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.