Magpie vs Special K
Magpie
github.com
Special K
special-k.infoSide by side
| Figure | Magpie | Special K |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 0 |
| Spec score · Game Graphics Optimization Software | 8.1 (#4) | 6.7 (#30) |
| Spec score · Graphics optimisers | 8.4 (#5) | 6.9 (#30) |
| Spec score · Game Overlay Software | 8.1 (#8) | 6.7 (#23) |
| License | The project is licensed under GPLv3. | The site's source code is licensed under GNU GPL v3.0. |
| Purpose | Magpie is a lightweight window upscaling tool with scaling algorithms and filters. | Special K describes itself as a PC gaming tool for fixing and enhancing graphics, analyzing performance, and addressing issues affecting PC games. |
Plans
In their own words
Magpie
Magpie is a free Windows tool for scaling windowed or fullscreen content with built-in algorithms and filters. These include Anime4K, FSR, CRT shaders, and other effects. Effects can be combined, most have adjustable parameters, and users familiar with HLSL can add effects. The WinUI-based interface supports light and dark themes, and the tool supports multiple monitors. Release notes describe a screenshot hotkey that defaults to Alt+Shift+S, with customizable filenames, and SGSR, a lightweight upscaling algorithm designed for 3D content. The FAQ says frame generation is not planned because Magpie focuses on visual quality and post-processing, which can add latency when used for frame generation. Magpie requires Windows 10 version 1903 or later, or Windows 11, and DirectX feature level 11. It is licensed under GPLv3, and downloads are linked from GitHub Releases. The repository says it has no SECURITY.md file and no published security advisories. Magpie is associated with a maker founded in 2021.
Special K
Special K has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.