Side by side
BatteryBar vs Macs Fan Control
Both stand on hardware monitoring software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Windows
BatteryBar provides taskbar battery monitoring and estimated remaining time, with Pro adding alerts and configuration options. Check the listed Windows requirements and whether the battery reports rate data before relying on those readings.
Visit BatteryBar Free plan MacWindows
Choose Macs Fan Control for Mac fan and sensor monitoring, with fan adjustment options on macOS and an automatic return to Auto when the app quits. Look elsewhere if you need Windows fan control outside the stated Boot Camp setup or want Pro without a one-time purchase.
Visit Macs Fan ControlThe facts
| BatteryBar | Macs Fan Control | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | BatteryBar Pro: $4, paid once | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Macs Fan Control |
| Website | osirisdevelopment.com | crystalidea.com |
| On hardware monitoring software | #17 of 59 | #35 of 59 |
BatteryBar: what it does well
- Free version is available.
- Displays battery details in the taskbar popup.
- Uses historical data to estimate remaining time.
- Pro adds low and critical battery alerts.
- Pro includes 20 configurable settings.
What to know first
- Listed supported systems are Windows XP, Vista, or 7.
- A system battery is required.
- Windows XP requires .NET Framework 2.0.
- Some batteries do not report charge or discharge rates.
Macs Fan Control: what it does well
- Monitors fan speeds and temperature sensors, including third-party drives through S.M.A.R.T.
- Works on Macs with Apple Silicon.
- Supports fixed-speed or temperature-sensor-based fan control on macOS.
- Restores fans to Auto when the app quits.
- Menu bar can show fan speed and sensor temperature.
What to know first
- Windows fan control is for Windows installed through Boot Camp on Intel-based Macs.
- Custom fan presets are included with Pro, not the listed Free plan.
Alternatives to BatteryBar Alternatives to Macs Fan Control The whole list