OpenKJ vs UltraStar Deluxe

OpenKJ is open-source karaoke hosting software for karaoke DJs, built and tested for Linux, macOS, and Windows. It integrates with OpenKJ Songbook, which supports web-based song search and submissions. Singers can use Songbook apps for iOS and Android to browse or search a songbook, submit songs with requested key changes, and save favorites. The web submission site can also serve as a venue kiosk, and sign-up requests are sent directly to the host computer. Songbook can optionally display download-vendor catalogs; the project says these are updated daily. OpenKJ SongShop supports purchasing and downloading karaoke files on the fly, with PartyTyme listed as the only available vendor. OpenKJ Tools provides utilities for ReplayGain adjustment, archive handling, zip compatibility, and filename capitalization. Those tools are marked experimental, and the project recommends backing up the library before using them. OpenKJ is free; Songbook starts at $9.99 per month and has a one-month free trial.

UltraStar Deluxe is a free, open-source karaoke game for Windows, Linux and macOS. Players sing and score points based on pitch and rhythm, and can create their own songs. Party mode supports 8–12 players divided into two or three teams. The maker says more than 10,000 songs are available; players can also use DRM-free audio files or music stored on their computers. SingStar microphones work with the game. Users can create themes and download community plugins, free songs and code patches. Lua plugins are supported, with the .usdx extension and placement in the plugins directory required. The Official UltraStar Song Format is shared with partner games and song editors. Listed minimum requirements include a 1GHz CPU, OpenGL 1.2, 512MB free RAM and 200MB disk space, plus room for songs and videos. The downloads page lists version 2026.9.0 and links to an installer, release notes and source; Flathub and AUR are alternative installation methods. Audio devices do not have plug-and-play support, so the game must be restarted after a new device is connected.