# WiThrottle Lite

> Wireless throttle for model railroad DCC control via JMRI or dedicated modules. (iPhone/iPad app by Beth Hoffman.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/withrottle-lite/id344190130 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Beth Hoffman](https://appshunter.io/developer/344172581)
- Category: Utilities, Entertainment
- Price: Free
- Rating: 4.40/5 from 34 App Store ratings · 27 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 11.0 · 6 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2009-12-12
- Data updated: 2026-08-17
- Monetization: free
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/withrottle-lite/id344190130/reviews.md

## What is WiThrottle Lite?

Use your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad as a throttle for model railroad control!
**PLEASE NOTE**  This App is not a stand-alone product!  Other hardware and software are required.

WiThrottle Lite is the free version of WiThrottle.

Link to the popular JMRI software through a local Wi-Fi network to access throttle, address, and function controls wirelessly.
-or-
Connect directly to an MRC Prodigy WiFi module.
-or-
Connect directly to a Digitrax LnWi module.
-or-
Connect directly to a WifiTrax WFD-30/31 module.

Digital Command Control (DCC) is now the most common control method for earnest model railroaders, allowing multiple trains to be controlled simultaneously anywhere on the track.  JMRI is an interface program that works with most brands of DCC and is very popular because it simplifies DCC programming, signaling, control, and many other aspects of running a permanent layout.  It is also free and multi-platform.  

Instead of direct control through the DCC system, WiThrottle Lite links with JMRI or a dedicated module.  This provides a universal interface to many possible combinations of technology and model railroads.  As DCC evolves, JMRI is updated as needed to match current technology.

JMRI Requirements:
- JMRI 2.12 or higher, JMRI 5.2 or newer recommended
- DCC system interfaced to a computer and a model railroad
- Local Wi-Fi network

MRC Prodigy WiFi Requirements:
- MRC Prodigy WiFi module
- MRC Prodigy DCC system

Digitrax LnWi Requirements:
- Digitrax LnWi module
- Digitrax DCC system

WifiTrax WFD-30/31 Requirements:
- WifiTrax WFD module
- NCE DCC system

If you operate at either a club or private home that uses JMRI for operations and has Wi-Fi, access to the local network (host may need to share their password) is all you need.  Multiple iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad mobile devices may use their own WiThrottle or WiThrottle Lite simultaneously during an operating session.  WiThrottle Lite allows you to confirm compatibility at no cost before buying the full App.

Please visit our website for additional information.  Our goal is to enhance your model railroading experience by providing convenient, wireless control of your existing system.  WiThrottle is the final piece of the puzzle.  

Features:
- No time limits or expiration on use
- Fully functional basic DCC throttle
- Speed and direction control
- F0 - F68 functions
- Acquire addresses wirelessly
- Adjust sensitivity of the throttle slider
- Train idles if interrupted (e.g. phone call)
- Automatic networking
- Flashlight for devices equipped with camera flash

WiThrottle Lite will integrate seamlessly if:
- you can already control a train using the built-in throttles of JMRI 2.12 or later
- your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad can access your local wireless network (not cellular or Bluetooth)

## Key features

- Wireless DCC throttle
- Speed and direction control
- F0 - F68 function control
- Acquire addresses wirelessly
- Adjust throttle slider sensitivity
- Automatic networking
- Flashlight feature

## Recent user reviews (10 of 27)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/withrottle-lite/id344190130/reviews.md

### 5/5 — Brilliant app

*2026-06-16*

I use this app without JMRI and just with MRCWIFI.
Love the way now I can have all my locos in one roster with the running number and or name listed. Don’t have to keep remembering the addresses. Throttle panel very easy to use and again all the loco functions listed and I don’t now need a separate folder to know what F7 does on a certain loco.
Using the dual or quad panel you can toggle one just to control points so it’s all on the same screen. Excellent.
So far it has worked flawlessly.
I would recommend this app to anyone.
PS.  Any chance of an update to include route planning?

### 5/5 — Perfect loco control even for model shows

*2026-05-15*

The app Works flawlessly without any issues, never liked the idea of not having a physical dial to control speed but after trying this with a WiFi module I’d never go back, hands free and just as responsive as a physical controller!!!! 11/10

### 4/5 — Good tool

*2026-02-26*

Definitely handy when I leave my controller at home when I go to the club, but I wish I could make consists. I would be willing to pay… but not $13!

### 1/5 — Disappointing

*2025-07-16*

This app has potential but is useless with WiThrottle. All you can control is the forward/back and speed - no function buttons - no sound etc.  if you use WiThrottle with an NCE Powercab or similar don’t waste your money!

### 5/5 — Nice app

*2024-09-12*

So easy to use instead of the bulky controllers

### 3/5 — It’s ok..

*2024-03-09*

It’s an ok app, but its quirky.  For example if I shut a train down completely, turn off the lights and everything and release it, then close out the app, the train lights will come on.  The interface is dated, and there is no option to turn off track power.  You still need to do that from the controller. I’m really apprehensive in buying the full app because of the quirkiness. Other than that and other small things, it’s not a bad app.

### 5/5 — Excellent

*2021-05-22*

I am in the process of building a very large multi deck layout. I had planned for WiFi throttles in my original design along with my Digitrax system. I had tried a couple other apps first and couldn’t get them to work with my LNWI but WiThrottle Lite worked like a charm the first try. I actually get a better throttle response with the app than I’d do with my handheld Digitrax throttles.

### 4/5 — You get what you pay for

*2021-01-21*

This app is great but it can be a little laggy on older devices. (iPhone 5s and iPod Touch Gen 6) There were many times where I had to restart the app. Otherwise, it is great because I could go and mess with a switch or derailment and not have to worry about the limit of the cord or the cord getting caught in other things on the layout.

### 4/5 — Great App!

*2020-01-03*

This is a very handy app for controlling trains on my home layout, and on my club’s layout.  I use it all the time on my iPhones at home via JMRI when I have friends over for an operating session on my NCE PowerCab layout with limited number of cabs.
I also use it on my iPhone at my club’s layout.  I am even thinking about purchasing the full app so I can do consisting at the club.
I would give it 5 stars if it could work landscape on my iPad mini.

### 5/5 — Very easy to use.

*2019-10-16*

Great app. Very easy to use and configure. I have digitrax and use their LNWI adaptor. My grand kids like using the spare iPhone better than the regular throttles. I like that all the functions, the F1-F20 keys are separate. No need to use shift key. Very handy at acquiring and releasing engines. Now I need more iPhones.

## Frequently asked questions about WiThrottle Lite

### What does WiThrottle Lite do?

WiThrottle Lite transforms your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad into a wireless throttle for controlling model railroad trains. It connects to popular JMRI software or specific hardware modules, allowing you to manage speed, direction, and functions of your DCC-equipped trains.

### What are the key features of WiThrottle Lite?

Key features include basic DCC throttle functionality, speed and direction control, access to functions F0 through F68, wireless address acquisition, adjustable throttle slider sensitivity, and automatic networking. It also includes a flashlight feature for devices equipped with a camera flash.

### Is WiThrottle Lite free to use?

Yes, WiThrottle Lite is the free version of WiThrottle and is available at no cost. It allows you to confirm compatibility with your system before potentially purchasing the full version of the app.

### What are the requirements to use WiThrottle Lite?

To use WiThrottle Lite, you need either JMRI software (version 2.12 or higher, 5.2 or newer recommended) interfaced with your DCC system and a local Wi-Fi network, or a compatible hardware module like MRC Prodigy WiFi, Digitrax LnWi, or WifiTrax WFD-30/31.

### How does WiThrottle Lite enhance the model railroading experience?

This app enhances the model railroading experience by providing convenient, wireless control of your existing DCC system. It eliminates the need for physical throttles and allows multiple mobile devices to control trains simultaneously during an operating session.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 3.8.3 — 2024-01-18

Minor bug fix.

### 3.8.2 — 2023-07-17

Minor bug fix

### 3.8.1 — 2023-05-14

Fix overlapping text.

### 3.8 — 2023-05-06

Allow control of functions up to F68 on systems that support it.

### 3.6 — 2022-08-24

Improved VoiceOver support.
Minor bug fixes.

## Apps similar to WiThrottle Lite

| App | Rating | Price | Category |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [ThrottleCard](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/throttlecard/id6739982126) | 4.3 (11) | Free | Utilities |
| [DCC Commander](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/dcc-commander/id6498150761) | — | Free | Utilities |
| [Blunami](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/blunami/id6450242596) | 4.6 (8) | Free | Utilities |
| [WiThrottle Cab](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/withrottle-cab/id6746695618) | 1.0 (1) | Free | Utilities |
| [DCC-EX Cab](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/dcc-ex-cab/id6695754417) | 3.0 (4) | Free | Utilities |
| [Train Throttle](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/train-throttle/id1662181863) | 5.0 (2) | Free | Utilities |

## More apps by Beth Hoffman

- [WiThrottle](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/withrottle/id344172578)

All apps by Beth Hoffman: https://appshunter.io/developer/344172581

## Related topics

[railrunner dcc wifi throttle](https://appshunter.io/ios/topics/railrunner-dcc-wifi-throttle)

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-17.*