BetterDisplay review
A broad Mac display utility with strong virtual-screen features and a perpetual Pro option.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
BetterDisplay is a macOS display-management utility for Mac users who need more control over internal and external screens. It brings together custom and HiDPI resolutions, brightness, volume and color controls, DDC, input switching, virtual screen creation, Picture-in-Picture windows, configuration protection, display groups, synchronization, diagnostics, and EDID export. It is suited to Mac users managing multiple displays or virtual display workflows, while its platform scope keeps it focused on Apple computers.
Pricing is straightforward. The Free plan keeps its free features available after the 14-day trial for non-business users. The Pro license costs $21.99 USD as a one-time payment and includes all features for the current major app version, a perpetual license, and at least one year of free updates. The paid tier is particularly relevant for users who need the full feature set rather than a recurring subscription. Checkout currency and taxes can vary by location.
Its standout area is the combination of virtual screens and physical display control. Users can create virtual screens, place Picture-in-Picture windows on displays or virtual screens, protect layouts, group displays, synchronize brightness, switch inputs through DDC, and inspect display diagnostics. Automation support extends through macOS Shortcuts, command-line tools, HTTP, custom URL schemes, notifications, and shell scripts. BetterDisplay should suit Mac users who want broad display configuration and automation in one utility. Users who need scheduling, monitor profiles, automatic brightness, or support beyond macOS should choose a narrower alternative that provides those capabilities.
BetterDisplay pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Virtual screens, PIP windows, and display layout protection
- DDC control, input switching, brightness, volume, and color tools
- macOS Shortcuts, CLI, HTTP, URL-scheme, and shell integrations
- Where it doesn't
- macOS-only platform support
- No scheduling, monitor profiles, or automatic brightness controls
- Some features depend on the Mac, macOS version, display, and connection
BetterDisplay fact sheet, pricing and score →
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