Side by side
easyHDR vs MergeHDR
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 LinuxMacWindows
Choose easyHDR if you need HDR merging and tone mapping with RAW support, batch processing, or single-photo enhancement. Check the demo restrictions against your output needs, and compare HOME and COMMERCIAL licensing to your intended use before choosing a license.
Visit easyHDR Free plan iPhoneMac
MergeHDR provides bracket detection and adjustable merging controls, with local offline processing and a free export allowance. Check device requirements and export limits before choosing between the yearly and one-time payment options.
Visit MergeHDRThe facts
| easyHDR | MergeHDR | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | iPhone, Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Yearly: $9.99 a year |
| Plans published | 4 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | easyhdr.com | mergehdr.app |
| On hdr software | #5 of 21 | #9 of 21 |
easyHDR: what it does well
- Combines True HDR merging, Smart Merge, and image stacking.
- Processes single photos with LDR enhancement.
- Supports RAW files through LibRAW and multiple HDR output formats.
- Includes batch processing and command-line options.
- Installs an Adobe Lightroom plug-in with the application.
What to know first
- Demo outputs are watermarked and cannot be saved as TIFF or JP2.
- Current demo builds are listed for Windows and macOS; Linux use requires Wine.
- The freeware BASIC edition lacks layers, batch processing, and the Lightroom plug-in.
MergeHDR: what it does well
- Detects three-, five-, and seven-frame brackets.
- Offers alignment, four deghosting levels, and tone-mapping presets.
- Supports listed camera RAW formats, Apple ProRAW, HEIC, and JPEG.
- Photo detection and processing work locally and offline.
What to know first
- Requires iOS or iPadOS 18, or macOS 15 or later.
- Free exports are limited to five per day.
- Unlimited saves cost $9.99 per year or $19.99 once.
- Maximum bracket size is seven images.
Alternatives to easyHDR Alternatives to MergeHDR The whole list