Side by side
ColorForge vs PhotomatixCL
Both stand on hdr software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+3
ColorForge covers HDR merging, tone mapping, RAW support, and several output formats on a wide range of platforms. Its free plan makes it possible to start without a listed subscription cost.
Visit ColorForge Free plan LinuxMacWindows
PhotomatixCL is geared toward automated HDR workflows, with a bundled driver for folder-based batches. Trial mode avoids credit use but watermarks output, and free-plan tracking depends on internet access.
Visit PhotomatixCLThe facts
| ColorForge | PhotomatixCL | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Lite: $19 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | colorforge.studio | hdrsoft.com |
| On hdr software | #3 of 21 | #7 of 21 |
ColorForge: what it does well
- Free plan is available.
- Supports RAW files.
- Offers multiple tone-mapping controls.
- Exports JPEG, PNG, and 16-bit TIFF.
- Available on web, desktop, and mobile.
What to know first
- The listed facts do not specify its editing workflow.
- The listed facts do not detail differences between merge modes.
PhotomatixCL: what it does well
- Processes HDR images with tone mapping or exposure fusion.
- Offers alignment, ghost removal, and HDR presets.
- Driver can batch-process folders of image sets.
- Outputs JPG, TIFF, and EXR.
- Trial runs do not consume credits.
What to know first
- Each normal run processes one bracketed set.
- Free-plan tracking requires internet access.
- Trial outputs carry a Photomatix watermark.
- Universal Linux build lacks lens correction.
Alternatives to ColorForge Alternatives to PhotomatixCL The whole list