Side by side

DisplayBuddy vs PowerToys Command Palette

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.

DisplayBuddy

Free trial MacWindows

DisplayBuddy provides centralized monitor controls across macOS and Windows, with scheduling and automation options on Mac. One-time plans cover different Mac counts, while business licensing is priced separately.

Visit DisplayBuddy

PowerToys Command Palette

Free plan Windows

Choose PowerToys Command Palette if you want a free Windows launcher that combines search, commands, system tools, bookmarks, and extensions. Look elsewhere if you need a platform other than Windows.

Visit PowerToys Command Palette

The facts

	DisplayBuddy	PowerToys Command Palette
Free plan	A free trial	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Mac, Windows	Windows
Lowest paid plan	Personal: $24.99, paid once	Free or on request
Plans published	4	1
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	displaybuddy.app	learn.microsoft.com
On monitor control software	#22 of 24	#18 of 24

DisplayBuddy: what it does well

Brightness and contrast controls
Preset saving and synchronization
Mac scheduling options
Windows hotkeys and input switching
Offline controls after activation

What to know first

No free plan
Internet required for activation
Different Mac accounts need multiple licenses
Only supported displays receive all controls

PowerToys Command Palette: what it does well

Searches apps, files, folders, web queries, and calculator expressions.
Can install apps through WinGet and manage Windows services.
Pins commands to Home or a persistent Dock.
Supports community extensions through a built-in Gallery.
Free and open-source as part of PowerToys.

What to know first

Requires Windows 11 or Windows 10 version 2004 or later.
Must be enabled and running in the background to use its shortcut.

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