DMXcat® vs Vari
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.
Vari
Control your lighting console remotely from any location. Program, adjust, and manage your show with features like command line access, cue playback, and fader control. Ideal for lighting professionals seeking flexibility and precision.
- Remote console control
- Command line access
- Cue playback management
- Groups & palettes editing
- Advanced color picker
- Fader control
- Interactive magic sheets
- Patch table editing
Read full descriptionHide full description
VL Remote – VariLite NEO Console Control Take full control of your VariLite NEO console from anywhere in the venue. VL Remote puts professional lighting control in the palm of your hand, giving you the freedom to program, adjust, and manage your show from the stage, the stalls, or anywhere in between. Command Line Access - Execute commands in real time, just as you would at the console. Make precise adjustments on the fly without interrupting your workflow. Cue Playback Control - Manage cue lists and trigger playback from wherever you need to be. Stay in sync with your show without being tied to the console. Groups & Palettes - Access, edit, and apply groups and palettes instantly to accelerate programming and keep your session moving. Advanced Color Picker - Dial in exact colors with a powerful, intuitive color picker designed for speed and precision in demanding production environments. Fader Control - Make real-time level adjustments remotely, giving you hands-on control without returning to the desk. Magic Sheets - Visualize your rig and select fixtures intuitively using fully interactive magic sheets. Patch Table - View and edit your patch data whether you're online or working offline — ideal for preparation and troubleshooting. Task Tracking - Keep your production organized with integrated task management, so nothing gets missed during busy shows. Messaging - Communicate directly with your console operators through built-in messaging, keeping your entire team in sync. VL Remote is built for lighting professionals who demand flexibility and precision. Whether you're on a world tour or setting up a one-night show, VL Remote keeps you in control — wherever you are.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is review sentiment: DMXcat® at 68% against Vari's 0%. DMXcat® also leads on rating (3.9 vs 3.0) and ratings volume (26 vs 2). Vari's advantage is iOS requirement (15.0 vs 17.0). On price, update cadence, ads and in-app purchases 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 2, 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 Vari's.
DMXcat® ships an update monthly, Vari every 2 months. The most recent releases landed on October 13, 2026 and October 6, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | DMXcat® | Vari |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 3.9 (26 ratings) — better | 3.0 (2 ratings) |
| Positive reviews | 68.4% of reviews — better | 0.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | 26 — better | 2 |
| Update frequency | Monthly — better | Every 2 months |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free | Free |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPad, iPod — better |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | 15.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 43 MB | 57 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | City Theatrical, Inc | Signify Netherlands B.V. |
Customer experience
DMXcat®
Vari
In-app purchases
DMXcat®
No in-app purchases
Vari
No in-app purchases







