Side by side
Fluence vs LightAct
Both stand on projection mapping software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan MacWindows
Fluence combines live clip composition and performance controls with projection mapping and recording tools. Its free download includes the full feature set, but a periodic watermark remains until license activation.
Visit Fluence
Free plan Self-hostedWindows
LightAct combines projection mapping, live-event workflows, tracking, and multi-server synchronization for Windows installations. The free Creator plan watermarks outputs, and the Easy Perpetual license costs 1,770.00 EUR once.
Visit LightActThe facts
| Fluence | LightAct | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Easy Perpetual: €1,770, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | fluencelive.com | lightact.com |
| On projection mapping software | #5 of 24 | #9 of 24 |
Fluence: what it does well
- Includes 16 types of clips
- Supports keyboard, MIDI, and OSC controls
- Offers warping grids and edge blending
- Exports in 12 codecs
What to know first
- Free download adds a periodic watermark
- Windows requires a Vulkan-capable graphics card
- Mac support requires Apple Silicon and macOS 13 or later
LightAct: what it does well
- 3D mapping includes calibration, warping, and blending
- Multi-server clusters synchronize frame by frame
- Supports OSC, TCP, UDP, and TUIO
- Creator plan unlocks all features and unlimited outputs
What to know first
- Creator outputs are watermarked
- Requires Windows 10 or later and Nvidia graphics
- Does not support interlaced video streams
- WebUI is available only on LightAct servers
Alternatives to Fluence Alternatives to LightAct The whole list