Side by side
Cheese vs FileVault
Both stand on camera apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Linux
Choose Cheese if you use Linux with GNOME and want a free webcam app with effects, burst mode, and basic camera controls. It also provides fullscreen use and several sharing routes. Look elsewhere if you need a virtual camera or background tools.
Visit Cheese Free plan Mac
FileVault provides full-volume Mac encryption with recovery options and organization controls. Check the recovery requirements and removable-storage limitations before relying on it for every device or file.
Visit FileVaultThe facts
| Cheese | FileVault | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Not published |
| Plans published | 1 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | apps.gnome.org | apple.com |
| On camera apps | #2 of 18 | #6 of 18 |
Cheese: what it does well
- Free webcam photo and video capture for Linux.
- Applies effects to photos and videos.
- Burst mode captures a configured number of photos at a configured delay.
- Lets users choose webcams, set resolution, and adjust brightness and contrast.
- Offers fullscreen mode for kiosk settings.
What to know first
- Available on Linux only.
- No virtual camera is available.
- Background tools are not included.
FileVault: what it does well
- Built into macOS
- Encrypts full storage volumes with AES-XTS
- Supports iCloud or recovery-key recovery
- Secure Enclave handles keys on supported Macs
- Organizations can escrow recovery keys
What to know first
- Older Macs require manual activation
- Losing credentials can lose files and settings
- Removable storage lacks Secure Enclave protection
- Pre-activation data may be recoverable
Alternatives to Cheese Alternatives to FileVault The whole list