Side by side

BetterDisplay vs DDCcontrol

Both stand on monitor control software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

BetterDisplay

Free plan Mac

BetterDisplay brings display controls, scaling, virtual screens, and automation together for macOS. Check compatibility for the specific Mac and display, and note the different post-trial licensing rule for businesses.

Visit BetterDisplay

DDCcontrol

Free plan Linux

DDCcontrol provides graphical and command-line monitor controls for Linux, with a scanner and database for monitor-specific functionality. Check device permissions, database availability and connection support before relying on it.

Visit DDCcontrol

The facts

	BetterDisplay	DDCcontrol
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Mac	Linux
Lowest paid plan	BetterDisplay Pro: $21.99, paid once	Free or on request
Plans published	1	1
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	betterdisplay.pro	ddccontrol.github.io
On monitor control software	#3 of 24	#7 of 24

BetterDisplay: what it does well

Manages brightness, resolution, color, and connections.
Offers flexible HiDPI scaling and virtual screens.
Includes DDC and HDMI-CEC controls for compatible setups.
Automation includes Shortcuts, CLI, and scripts.
Non-business users can continue free functionality after trial.

What to know first

Businesses need a Pro license after the trial.
Compatibility depends on the Mac, display, and connection.
Pro features require a license.

DDCcontrol: what it does well

Free software for Linux.
Offers GTK and command-line interfaces.
Supports scripts and automation.
Scanner can create a monitor database XML file.
Packages listed for Debian/Ubuntu, Fedora and openSUSE.

What to know first

USB-connected DDC/CI displays are not supported.
Requires readable and writable /dev/i2c-* devices.
Monitor database is required for monitor-specific controls.

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