Software comparison

QLab vs Smode

QLab is a show-control application, while Smode is a media server — they overlap in places but are often used together rather than as substitutes.

	QLab	Smode
Developer	Figure 53	Smode Tech
Country	United States	France
Category	Show control	Media servers
Platforms	macOS	Windows
Licence	Free to program; paid licences to run advanced features	Paid licences
Skill level	Beginner → Pro	Pro
First release	—	—
Best for	Theatre sound and video playback with simple mapping.	Live shows and immersive venues needing real-time content.
Key features	Cue-based show control Video surfaces with corner-pin & mesh warp Audio playback & mixing MIDI / OSC / Network cues	Real-time compositing Media server & mapping Generative content Live show control

Verdict

Only QLab runs on macOS.

Only Smode runs on Windows.

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

Choose Smode for live shows and immersive venues needing real-time content.

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