Software comparison

MadMapper vs QLab

MadMapper is a projection-mapping tool, while QLab is a show-control application — they overlap in places but are often used together rather than as substitutes.

	MadMapper	QLab
Developer	GarageCUBE & 1024 Architecture	Figure 53
Country	Switzerland / France	United States
Category	Projection-mapping software	Show control
Platforms	macOS, Windows	macOS
Licence	Perpetual licence (rental options)	Free to program; paid licences to run advanced features
Skill level	Beginner → Pro	Beginner → Pro
First release	2011	—
Best for	Architectural mapping, LED installations and fast set-ups by small teams.	Theatre sound and video playback with simple mapping.
Key features	Surface & mesh warping Edge blending LED & DMX/Art-Net pixel mapping Spatial scanner Built-in generative materials MiniMad hardware player Syphon/Spout & NDI input	Cue-based show control Video surfaces with corner-pin & mesh warp Audio playback & mixing MIDI / OSC / Network cues

Verdict

Only MadMapper runs on Windows.

Choose MadMapper for architectural mapping, LED installations and fast set-ups by small teams.

Choose QLab for theatre sound and video playback with simple mapping.

Facts are curated and checked against vendor websites; licences and prices change — always confirm on the official sites before buying.

MadMapper alternatives · QLab alternatives · All software