Compare software

m1ddc vs Lunar: catalog facts
m1ddc	Lunar
Best for: Apple Silicon Mac users who want to control external monitor settings from a terminal	Best for: Mac users with external monitors who want to control them from the keyboard
Free Free and open source under the MIT license.	Free + paid options Core features are free; Lunar Pro is a $23 lifetime license with a 14-day trial.
macOS, Command line	macOS
Controls compatible displays through DDC/CI Works with supported USB-C, DisplayPort Alt Mode, and HDMI connections All 3 strengths for m1ddc Controls compatible displays through DDC/CI Works with supported USB-C, DisplayPort Alt Mode, and HDMI connections Can be used in scripts	Changes real monitor brightness over DDC rather than using an overlay Native smooth control of Apple-made displays All 4 strengths for Lunar Changes real monitor brightness over DDC rather than using an overlay Native smooth control of Apple-made displays Keyboard brightness keys work on external monitors Can switch monitor inputs and adjust volume
Does not support Intel Macs Requires Apple's Command Line Tools	macOS only, version 11 or newer for the current release Some features require the paid Pro license
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Not open source
License: MIT	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for m1ddc github.com/waydabber/m1ddc Catalog checked October 8, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Lunar lunar.fyi Catalog checked September 23, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.