TL;DR
BetterDisplay vs MonitorControl: For most Mac users in 2026, MonitorControl is the better choice for Display control because it is a free, install-in-one-command replacement for Lunar Pro ($23). Both install with a single Homebrew command, so the switching cost is low. Choose BetterDisplay instead if display support is your priority.
Which is better: BetterDisplay or MonitorControl?
MonitorControl is the top pick for most Mac users looking at Display control — it is free and open-source and installs in one Homebrew command. BetterDisplay is the stronger choice if you prefer an open-source alternative. Both are worth trying.
BetterDisplay vs MonitorControl
Which is the better Display control for Mac in 2026?
We compared BetterDisplay and MonitorControl across 6 key factors including price, open-source status, and community adoption. Read our full breakdown below.
BetterDisplay
Display management and customization tool
MonitorControl
Control external monitor brightness & volume
Visual Comparison
BetterDisplay
BetterDisplay — Official Website
MonitorControl
MonitorControl — Official Website
Our Verdict
For most Mac users in 2026, MonitorControl is the better choice for Display control because it is a free, install-in-one-command replacement for Lunar Pro ($23). Both install with a single Homebrew command, so the switching cost is low. Choose BetterDisplay instead if display support is your priority.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | BetterDisplay | MonitorControl |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Open Source | Yes | Yes |
| Replaces | — | Lunar Pro ($23) |
| Best for | display, resolution, management | display, brightness, volume |
| Install | brew install --cask betterdisplay | brew install --cask monitorcontrol |
| Category | System Utilities | System Utilities |
Quick Install
brew install --cask betterdisplaybrew install --cask monitorcontrolLearn More
Video Tutorials
BetterDisplay Mac Tutorial: Fix Display Resolution & Refresh Rate
Rafal Reyzer • 28.8K views
BetterDisplay Resolution Scaling Fix For Mac HiDPI mode
MacHow2 • 79.2K views
Useful Mac App #6 BetterDisplay #apple #mac
ASHEN • 9.9K views
Tip - BetterDisplay - Preview
ScreenCastsONLINE • Apple-focused Videos • 21.5K views
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Explore More on Bundl
Browse Display control apps, read our complete guide, or discover curated bundles.