Side by side
Lossless Scaling vs Special K
Both stand on game graphics optimization software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Paid LinuxWindows
Lossless Scaling focuses on enlarging windowed games and generating frames when games lack those functions. Hardware, display-mode, and platform conditions should be checked before purchase.
Visit Lossless Scaling
Free plan LinuxWindows
Special K combines graphics and performance tools with launcher, achievement and image-viewing features. The stable channel may lag behind experimental releases, which the site recommends for issues that may have changed.
Visit Special KThe facts
| Lossless Scaling | Special K | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Windows | Linux, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Lossless Scaling: ₹345, paid once | Not published |
| Plans published | 1 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | losslessscaling.com | special-k.info |
| On game graphics optimization software | #30 of 34 | #26 of 34 |
Lossless Scaling: what it does well
- Adds frame generation to games and emulators
- Offers numerous scaling algorithms
- Adaptive mode targets non-multiple frame rates
- Can offload work to a second GPU
- Game Profiles apply settings automatically
What to know first
- No free plan
- Official listed platform is Windows
- Linux LSFG uses a community-driven port
- Exclusive fullscreen may require a second display
Special K: what it does well
- Free, with no paid plan listed.
- FPS limiter includes automatic VRR optimization.
- HDR retrofit covers four graphics APIs.
- SKIF supports Steam, Epic, Xbox and GOG.
- Source code is licensed under GNU GPL v3.0.
What to know first
- Stable updates arrive about every six months.
- SKIV does not support JPEG-XR on Linux.
- Experimental releases are available through Discord.
Alternatives to Lossless Scaling Alternatives to Special K The whole list