Side by side
DisplayCAL vs PatternSpace
Both stand on display calibration software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
DisplayCAL offers calibration, profiling, verification and chart tools across Linux, macOS and Windows. Users need both ArgyllCMS and a supported measurement instrument.
Visit DisplayCAL Free plan Mac
PatternSpace offers extensive pattern generation and calibration automation options for Mac users, but it is not a display measurement or correction tool. Check the required macOS version and separate DeckLink requirements if you need SDI output.
Visit PatternSpaceThe facts
| DisplayCAL | PatternSpace | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | DeckLink SDI Output: $39.99, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | displaycal.net | patternspace.caplaz.com |
| On display calibration software | #4 of 24 | #8 of 24 |
DisplayCAL: what it does well
- Creates calibrations and ICC profiles.
- Supports multi-display setups.
- Verifies profiles and display devices.
- Includes a test chart editor.
- Free software under GNU GPL version 3 or later.
What to know first
- Requires ArgyllCMS 1.0 or newer.
- Requires a supported measurement instrument.
- Supplied without warranty.
PatternSpace: what it does well
- Includes more than 100 GPU-rendered patterns.
- Supports connected internal and external displays.
- Pro supports three calibration integrations.
- Free plan includes 14 SDR reference presets.
- Maker says it sends no internet analytics or telemetry.
What to know first
- Requires macOS 15.6 or later.
- Does not measure or automatically correct displays.
- DeckLink output requires compatible Blackmagic hardware.
- HDR and UHD SDI are not supported.
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