HDRI vs Screen Forge
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
HDRI
Create photorealistic 3D scenes with this powerful tool. It helps visualize virtual objects in real-world environments by capturing and processing 360 panoramic images for lighting and reflection.
- Photorealistic 3D image creation
- 360 panoramic camera control
- Lighting and reflection source for 3D scenes
- Supports HDR and EXR formats
- Ideal for VFX, AR, and VR applications
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The HDRI Application is a photorealistic 3D image creation helping tool. The HDRI Application works with a 360 panoramic camera (not supplied) and can be used in many fields, including: - cinematography, special effects - virtual reality - augmented reality The quality of display of a virtual object is key. Some situations require rendering virtual objects with a display that is similar to reality (the user must not be able to distinguish real objects from virtual objects, this is called photorealistic rendering). The virtual restitution of the various physical phenomena observed in reality requires a deep understanding of the scene and its environment (e.g. identification of light sources, their intensities, their temperatures, etc.). The HDRI Application allows you to take a number of photos using a 360 panoramic camera which can then be stitched together* to constitute a high-dynamic-range image (in HDR or EXR format). This image can then be used as a source of lighting and reflection for a 3D scene. *WARNING: The present version of the HDRI Application only allows you to control the 360 panoramic camera. The stitching of the photos (creation of a high-dynamic-range image in HDR or EXR format) must be carried out using a third-party application (e.g. Photoshop®, PTGui®...).
Screen Forge
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The Ultimate Screen Preparation Tool for VFX Screen Forge is a powerful tool designed for filmmakers using iPhones and iPads to shoot scenes where screens will later be replaced in VFX. Whether you’re using Chroma Key or other screen replacement techniques, Screen Forge helps you set up your screen for seamless post-production integration. Key Features: • Multiple Background Colors – Select from a range of colors to match any scene’s needs. • Tracking Markers – Choose from various marker types to ensure precise alignment in post-production. • Touch References – On-screen ‘Keyboard’ and ‘Phone’ guides help actors interact naturally with virtual interfaces. • Single Tap Track Marker – Custom markers for precise tap and drag tracking (not compatible with multiple touches). • Custom Size & Opacity – Adjust tracking markers to balance visibility, reflections, and removal ease in VFX. • Tips for Beginners – Get practical guidance on optimizing your screen for VFX. • Brightness Adjustment Chart – Fine-tune screen brightness to match scene exposure for optimal results. • Focus Chart – Ensure sharp focus on the screen during filming. Designed for both beginners and professionals, Screen Forge simplifies screen preparation, making your VFX workflow smoother and more efficient. Disclaimer: Screen Forge is a pre-production tool and does not generate VFX or final composites. It assists filmmakers in setting up screens for filming, while actual VFX work should be done using professional post-production software. Terms Of Use: https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/ Privacy Policy: https://www.dotcine.com.br/screenforge-privacy
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is price: Screen Forge at Free against HDRI's $13.99. Screen Forge also leads on update cadence (monthly vs every 8 months). HDRI's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 2) and iOS requirement (13.0 vs 17.0). On 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
Screen Forge is free to download; HDRI costs $13.99 up front. Screen Forge sells 2 in-app purchases, starting at $4.99 per month. HDRI asks for nothing beyond the download.
HDRI ships an update every 8 months, Screen Forge monthly. The most recent releases landed on July 7, 2026 and May 15, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | HDRI | Screen Forge |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $13.99 | Free — better |
| Rating | 1.0 (1 ratings) — better | — |
| Number of ratings | 1 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 8 months | Monthly — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No — better | Yes |
| Monetization | Paid | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPod | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 13.0 — better | 17.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 3 MB | 1 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | Goldgewicht Consulting | JOSE F DA SILVA NT |
In-app purchases
HDRI
No in-app purchases
Screen Forge
- Monthly7 Days trial$4.991 Month
- Yearly7 Days trial$24.991 Year









