DMXcat® vs Hyperlay Markout
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
DMXcat®
Control, analyze, and test DMX lighting fixtures wirelessly from your smartphone. This system uses a hardware dongle and free mobile apps to simplify lighting control without complex consoles. It supports various functions like DMX and RDM control, fixture management, and DIP switch calculations.
- Wireless DMX and RDM control
- Fixture control with built-in database
- DMX analysis and testing
- DIP switch calculator
- Multi-language support
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DMXcat® makes it easy for anyone to control, analyze, or test any DMX lighting fixture, whether it’s a simple LED PAR or a complex moving light. The system consists of a small hardware dongle (purchased separately) and a suite of free mobile applications. Together, they combine to bring wireless DMX and RDM control plus other useful lighting functions to the user’s smartphone. The DMXcat solves the problem faced by all users of modern lighting equipment: How to turn on and test DMX lighting gear without using a complicated lighting console. DMXcat app is now available in seven languages: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Korean, Japanese, and English. Software Applications There are currently five apps available for use with the DMXcat system: •DMX Controller: A single universe (512) DMX channel controller with two user interfaces (sliders or keypad). •Fixture Controller: Controls multi-attribute fixtures from a built in database. •RDM Controller: For bi-directional communication and control of RDM enabled devices. •DMX Tester: Analyze and adjust settings for transmitting or receiving DMX. •DIP switch calculator: Simplifies the configuring of DIP switches used for setting DMX addresses. Hardware The DMXcat’s hardware interface is a compact battery powered device which fits easily in a pocket or tool pouch or may be worn on a belt. It uses Bluetooth LE technology for communication with the smartphone applications (up to 50’ range). Without the limitations of being physically connected, the user can move about the workspace as needed with their smartphone and run the various apps while still using the phone for on-the-job communication. The device’s five pin XLRF connector/cable assembly allows it to be connected to a point in a DMX data chain to test or control of the various DMX/RDM functions. It is charged using a standard USB to Micro-USB cable and charger. Other features include a built-in LED flashlight, an audible alarm for locating a misplaced unit, XLR5M to XLR5M Turnaround, LED status indicator, and a removable belt clip with a split ring safety point. Optional accessories include XLR5M to RJ45 Adapter, XLR5M to XLR3F Adapter, XLR5M to XLR3M Turnaround, and a Belt Pouch.
Hyperlay Markout
This app automates the creation of rigging markout lists, replacing manual methods with a faster, more efficient digital process. It integrates with existing workflows by importing data from CAD and Excel, offering features like unit conversion and PDF export.
- Automated markout list creation
- Import from AutoCAD, Excel, Vectorworks
- Built-in unit converter
- Interactive markout sheet
- PDF export
- Offline access to recent files
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Hyperlay Markout is an innovative rigging app that automates the process of creating a markout list for the rigging industry. Hyperlay Markout does away with markout using a piece of paper, replacing it with an app that is orders of magnitude faster and more efficient all while still being easy to use and familiar to riggers. With over 9 unique features and integration into existing workflows by supporting inputs from AutoCAD, Excel, and Vectorworks Spotlight, Hyperlay Markout will transform your rigging workflow allowing you to save hundreds of hours in markout time taking in more shows as a result. Features: --------- + Interactive markout sheet A step-through markout list with a beautiful and focused dark User Interface that supports both portrait and landscape orientations. + Built-in Unit Converter Load data from a drawing with any unit and mark it out in another. All units are supported (metric & imperial) and can be changed at any time from the settings. + Move Datum Move datum to most upstage or most downstage points with a single tap and save valuable time by eliminating 3 of 6 tapes on the floor. + Rigging Plot Automatic creation of a rigging plot along with the Markout sheet for easy access to information. + Points Filter Ability to filter the markout list to display only SR or SL points + Versatile Import Interface Hyperlay Markout easily imports different styles of pointlists exported from CAD (e.g. AutoCAD, Vectorworks) or Excel. Simply import your show file into Hyperlay Markout from settings and it will do the rest, guiding you through the import process. + Recent Files Hyperlay Markout automatically stores locally the 10 most recently-opened show files on the device, so the app will still work even without a cellular data connection. + PDF export Ability to export the markout list as a PDF, for example, if you need to print the markout list to have as a physical backup. + Designed for iPhone and iPad Hyperlay Markout is a universal app, designed for both iPhone and iPad. On bigger screens, more points are displayed vertically and horizontally. In addition, Both landscape and portrait on both device families are supported. ----------------- You can try out Hyperlay Markout for free with an example show available under Recent Files in the settings screen. To import your own shows, a subscription is required. All plans however come with 1 month FREE trial and can be cancelled at any time, no strings attached. This means you can subscribe, try out your own shows for one month and cancel at any time without having to pay anything. Don't hesitate to contact us at any time with your questions and feedback via email (tap Contact Us in the settings). Payment will be charged to your iTunes account at confirmation of purchase. Subscription automatically renews unless auto-renew is turned off at least 24-hours before the end of the current period. Your account will be charged for renewal within 24-hours prior to the end of the current period. To manage subscriptions or turn off auto-renewal go to your iTunes account settings after the purchase. Any unused portion of the free trial period will be forfeited when you purchase a subscription. Privacy Policy: https://www.hyperlay.dk/markout/privacypolicy Terms of Use: https://www.hyperlay.dk/markout/termsofuse
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is rating: Hyperlay Markout at 5.0 against DMXcat®'s 3.9. Hyperlay Markout also leads on iOS requirement (13.0 vs 17.0). DMXcat®'s advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 3) and update cadence (monthly vs every 3 months). On price, ratings volume, ads and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Hyperlay Markout sells 3 in-app purchases, starting at $5.99 per month. DMXcat® asks for nothing beyond the download.
Hyperlay Markout holds the better App Store score, 5.0 against 3.9. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 26 and 9 respectively.
DMXcat® ships an update monthly, Hyperlay Markout every 3 months. The most recent releases landed on October 13, 2026 and October 4, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | DMXcat® | Hyperlay Markout |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 3.9 (26 ratings) | 5.0 (9 ratings) — better |
| Positive reviews | 68.4% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 26 — better | 9 |
| Update frequency | Monthly — better | Every 3 months |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No — better | Yes |
| Monetization | Free — better | Freemium |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPad, iPod — better |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | 13.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 43 MB | 6 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | City Theatrical, Inc | Drop APS |
Customer experience
DMXcat®
Hyperlay Markout
In-app purchases
DMXcat®
No in-app purchases
Hyperlay Markout
- Monthly Subscription1 Month trial$5.991 Month
- Biannual Subscription1 Month trial$29.996 Months
- Annual Subscription1 Month trial$47.991 Year
Questions
Is DMXcat® free?
Is Hyperlay Markout free?
Which has better reviews, DMXcat® or Hyperlay Markout?
Do DMXcat® or Hyperlay Markout have ads?
Which is updated more often, DMXcat® or Hyperlay Markout?
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