MonitorControl alternatives: 3 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave MonitorControl: no HiDPI scaling, virtual screens or brightness syncing, and DDC can fail on some monitors and ports. We ranked 3 alternatives by how directly each one replaces MonitorControl, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. BetterDisplay currently ranks first.
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Show all 3 alternativesThe best MonitorControl alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best MonitorControl alternative for most people
BetterDisplayFree tier adds HiDPI scaling and virtual screens; Pro unlocks XDR upscaling and much more.
Best MonitorControl alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
LunarAdds automatic brightness syncing with the MacBook's light sensor and fallbacks for DDC-less docks.
Best MonitorControl alternative for Mac
DisplayBuddyPaid but polished, with input switching and Wi-Fi control of LG and Samsung smart monitors.
MonitorControl alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to MonitorControl?
BetterDisplay ranks first right now. Free tier adds HiDPI scaling and virtual screens; Pro unlocks XDR upscaling and much more. Lunar and DisplayBuddy follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to MonitorControl?
Yes. BetterDisplay (free plan + paid) and Lunar (free plan + paid) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to MonitorControl?
None of the 3 alternatives in this list is open source.
Why do people switch from MonitorControl?
The complaints we hear most: no HiDPI scaling, virtual screens or brightness syncing; DDC can fail on some monitors and ports; macOS only.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces MonitorControl, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.