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entity

Free#16 of 24 in Projection Mapping Software

entity: A capable free Windows timeline engine for mapped playback, with live input outside its scope. Ranked #16 of 24 in Projection Mapping Software by our editors (6.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free Windows timeline-based projection playback.

6.0/10Editor score
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entity6.0 Visit entity

At a glance

  • Editor score
    6.0 / 10
  • Pricing
    Free plan
  • Best for
    Free Windows timeline-based projection playback
  • Free plan
    Yes
  • Paid from
    None
  • Facts checked
    20 Sep 2026
entity screenshot

  • Where it wins

    • Multi-layer timelines support video, object animation, and generative layers.
    • Calibration, soft-edge blending, routing, and 3D model imports cover mapped shows.
    • Open-source GPLv3 engine with OSC and Bitfocus Companion control.

  • Where it doesn't

    • Windows only, with macOS and Linux ports still on the roadmap.
    • Installation currently requires building from source on Windows.
    • Live input is not supported, and advanced control protocols are limited.

Our verdict on entity

entity is a local-first C++ media server for projection-mapping artists, theatre and festival video technicians, museums, galleries, and live installations. It runs on Windows 10 and 11 with a DirectX 12 GPU and is available as open-source software under GPLv3. Its core workflow combines multi-layer timeline playback with projection mapping, soft-edge blending, content routing, per-layer shader effects, and show control through OSC. It is aimed at teams that want a free, source-available playback and mapping system rather than a broad live-input platform.

The strongest part of entity is its mapped-playback workflow. Anchor-point projector calibration uses a lens model, while soft-edge blending supports overlapping projectors. Content can be routed directly, through tiled layouts, or with Feed Map modes. Layers can use HLSL effect packs, and timelines can include clips, object animation, and generative layers. EDID-based physical output assignment and 3D model imports for screens and props add practical tools for installations and shaped surfaces. Bitfocus Companion integration and inbound OSC over UDP provide control options for show operation, though the published feature set lists basic control protocols and no live input.

The Community plan includes multi-layer playback, projection mapping and soft edges, OSC control, and the full engine source under GPLv3. The Pro edition is planned with NDI / SDI output, Notch block playback, multi-node sync, and priority support planned. Installation currently involves building from source on Windows, and the project remains pre-release. Choose entity if free Windows timeline playback, mapping, blending, routing, and source access match your workflow. Choose an alternative if you need live input, a signed binary installer, current macOS or Linux support, or the planned Pro capabilities today.

entity pricing

Plans Free planFree Free to use — no paid tier required for the core job.
See plans on entitymedia.art

All 2 entity plans and prices →

entity fact sheet

Free planYes
Paid fromNone
WorkflowHybrid
Projection outputsNot verified
Edge blendingYes
Live video inputNo
3D mappingNot verified
Control protocolsBasic
DeploymentDesktop
PlatformsWindows
SupportCommunity, Docs
Built forSolo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate)
Integrations2 integrations: Bitfocus Companion, OSC
PricingFree plan (source)
Websiteentitymedia.art
Facts checked20 Sep 2026

entity integrations

entity lists 2 integrations on its own site.

  • Bitfocus Companion
  • OSC

Alternatives to entity

See all entity alternatives →

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Featured on iTechGuides

Featured on iTechGuides — entity 6.0/10

entity is listed in our Projection Mapping Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Guides on projection mapping software

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026

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