DMXcat® vs Mode Controller
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
Read full descriptionHide full description
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.
Mode Controller
Control crane operations wirelessly via a local network. This app offers a simple interface for one-click control of multiple devices and free grouping, enhancing efficiency and safety on construction sites and in warehouses.
- Wireless crane control via LAN
- One-click control of multiple devices
- Free grouping of crane devices
- Simple and intuitive interface
- Enhanced work efficiency and safety
- Comprehensive security mechanisms
Read full descriptionHide full description
The Mode App is an application designed specifically for cranes, which enables wireless control through a local area network connection. It has the advantages of simple interface operation, one-click control of multiple devices, and free grouping. Users can easily operate on their phones or tablets to control the lifting and lowering of the crane, improving work efficiency and safety. The following are the main functions and features of Mode App: Wireless control: Through a local area network connection, users can wirelessly control the lifting and lowering of the crane on their mobile phones or tablet computers, making it convenient and fast. One-click control of multiple devices: Mode App supports simultaneous control of multiple crane devices, allowing users to control multiple devices to lift and lower simultaneously with one click. Free grouping: Users can freely combine multiple crane devices into a group to achieve simultaneous lifting and lowering, facilitating unified control and management. Simple interface operation: The interface design of Mode App is simple and intuitive, and users can achieve lifting control of the crane with simple touch or gesture operations. Safe and reliable: Mode App has a comprehensive security mechanism and permission control to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the crane by users. The Mode App is suitable for various occasions where cranes are needed, such as construction sites, logistics warehouses, and port terminals. By using the Mode App, users can more easily and quickly control crane equipment, improving work efficiency and safety.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is review sentiment: DMXcat® at 68% against Mode Controller's 0%. DMXcat® also leads on rating (3.9 vs 3.0) and ratings volume (26 vs 3). Mode Controller's advantage is update cadence (fortnightly vs every 5 weeks). On price, ads, in-app purchases and monetization model 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. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
DMXcat® holds the better App Store score, 3.9 against 3.0. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: DMXcat® has 26 ratings behind it against 3, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 68% of DMXcat®'s written reviews are positive against 0% of Mode Controller's.
DMXcat® ships an update every 5 weeks, Mode Controller fortnightly. The most recent releases landed on September 27, 2026 and September 25, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | DMXcat® | Mode Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 3.9 (26 ratings) — better | 3.0 (3 ratings) |
| Positive reviews | 68.4% of reviews — better | 0.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | 26 — better | 3 |
| Update frequency | Every 5 weeks | Fortnightly — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free | Free |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod | iPhone, iPad, Mac |
| Requires iOS | 13.0 — better | 16.6 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 43 MB | 84 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 17+ |
| Developer | City Theatrical, Inc | 格物(北京)电动科技有限公司 |
Customer experience
DMXcat®
Mode Controller
In-app purchases
DMXcat®
No in-app purchases
Mode Controller
No in-app purchases









