DisplayBuddy
6.3#4 in monitor control software$24.99 one-timemacOSWindows
VisitDisplayBuddy vs ExtLume
What both publish
| Fact | DisplayBuddy | ExtLume |
|---|---|---|
| Monitor controls | It can control brightness, contrast, built-in speaker volume, input source, resolution, and rotation on supported displays. | The app provides a separate slider for each safely identified active external display and shows its EDID model name. |
| Privacy | Display controls and settings are processed and stored locally; optional anonymous product analytics can be disabled in the app. | ExtLume says it works offline with no telemetry, analytics, crash upload, update check, account, cloud synchronization, advertising identifier, or network request. |
| Purpose | DisplayBuddy controls external monitor brightness, contrast, and volume from a Mac menu bar or Windows taskbar. | ExtLume is a Windows tray app for adjusting external monitor brightness when Windows provides a brightness slider only for the laptop panel. |
DisplayBuddy plans
- Personal$24.99, paid once
- Pro$29.99, paid once
- Family$49.99, paid once
- EnterprisePriced on request
ExtLume plans
- ExtLumeFree
Pick DisplayBuddy if…
DisplayBuddy suits Mac and Windows users who want monitor controls outside a display’s own menus. Mac users who want scheduled presets or automation tools may find its additional controls useful.
Pick ExtLume if…
ExtLume suits Windows 10 or 11 users who need brightness controls for external displays. It is most relevant when the monitor and its connection support DDC/CI or when software dimming can be safely isolated.