# MonitorControl for Mac

> Brightness and volume keys for external displays.

MonitorControl changes the brightness, contrast and volume of external displays over DDC, so the Mac's own keys and menu bar sliders work on them like on the built-in screen. Displays without DDC can be dimmed in software.

## Facts

- Price: Free and open source
- Developer: MonitorControl
- Category: Utilities
- Website: https://monitorcontrol.app/
- Homebrew cask: monitorcontrol
- Source code: https://github.com/MonitorControl/MonitorControl
- License: MIT
- GitHub stars: 35k
- Last commit: 2026-10-14
- Facts checked: 2026-10-19
- MacWorthy page: https://macworthy.com/apps/monitorcontrol/

## Install

Homebrew:

```sh
brew install --cask monitorcontrol
```

## Questions

### Is MonitorControl free?

Yes. MonitorControl is free and open source under the MIT license. The source code is on GitHub at MonitorControl/MonitorControl.

### Where can I download MonitorControl for Mac?

Download MonitorControl from the developer's website (monitorcontrol.app) and GitHub. MacWorthy links only to official sources.

### Can I install MonitorControl from the Terminal?

Yes. With Homebrew, run `brew install --cask monitorcontrol`.

### What are good alternatives to MonitorControl?

Other utilities apps for Mac worth a look are Ice (open source), MacTools (open source), Haptiker (one-time purchase) and Bartender 6 (one-time purchase).

## Alternatives in Utilities

- [Ice](https://macworthy.com/apps/ice/): A powerful, free menu bar manager. (Open source)
- [MacTools](https://macworthy.com/apps/mactools/): A bundle of system controls in one menu bar item. (Open source)
- [Haptiker](https://macworthy.com/apps/haptiker/): Volume, brightness and app switching from the trackpad's edges. (One-time purchase)
- [Bartender 6](https://macworthy.com/apps/bartender-6/): Organize and hide menu bar icons. (One-time purchase)
- [iStat Menus](https://macworthy.com/apps/istat-menus/): Your Mac's vital signs, in the menu bar. (One-time purchase)
- [Stats](https://macworthy.com/apps/stats/): Free system monitor for the menu bar. (Open source)
- [Amphetamine](https://macworthy.com/apps/amphetamine/): Keep your Mac awake, on your terms. (Free)
- [Keka](https://macworthy.com/apps/keka/): The macOS file archiver. (Open source)

Tags: display, brightness, menu bar, open source