Side by side
Higround Forge vs Vial
Both stand on keyboard and mouse customization software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan WebWindows
Higround Forge provides device-specific customization without an installed desktop program. Check the supported-device list first, especially if you own an older Basecamp keyboard.
Visit Higround Forge Free plan LinuxMacWeb+1
Vial combines desktop and browser configuration with live keyboard edits and extensive QMK-related options. Check firmware compatibility, Linux setup requirements, and the beta release label before choosing it.
Visit VialThe facts
| Higround Forge | Vial | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Not published |
| Plans published | None | None |
| Maker | Higround Forge | Not published |
| Website | higround.co | get.vial.today |
| On keyboard and mouse customization software | #36 of 105 | #32 of 105 |
Higround Forge: what it does well
- Free browser-based access
- No installation or login required
- Settings save to onboard memory
- Supports up to 10 profiles
- Detailed keyboard and mouse controls
What to know first
- Supports only listed Higround devices
- PC and Chromium browser use required
- Older Basecamp models need separate software
Vial: what it does well
- Free plan with no listed trial cost
- Desktop apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Live edits save directly to the keyboard
- Supports layers, macros, tap dance, and combos
- Open-source GPL-2.0 project
What to know first
- Requires Vial-compatible keyboard firmware
- Linux detection needs a custom udev rule
- Web mode requires unlocking the keyboard
- Desktop version 0.7.5 is marked beta
Alternatives to Higround Forge Alternatives to Vial The whole list