MacBrightness is a macOS utility that unlocks the hidden HDR brightness range on compatible Macs, making screens up to twice as bright system-wide using the existing brightness keys.
What is MacBrightness?
MacBrightness is a one-time-purchase app for macOS 13+ that removes the software-imposed cap on display brightness for MacBook Pro 14/16 with M-series Pro/Max chips and Pro Display XDR. It takes no input beyond your normal brightness keys and outputs a screen that can sustain around 1,600 nits in any app — not just HDR video. Developed by Alex Brufsky, it requires no account and no low-level hacks.
Key Features
- Twice the brightness range — Extends the standard macOS brightness slider to use the display's full HDR range, achieving up to 1,600 nits sustained on mini-LED panels.
- Works with existing brightness keys — No new shortcuts or menu-bar controls; just press the F1/F2 keys past the old limit.
- System-wide coverage — Brightness boost applies to every app, not just HDR content, so you can read the screen in direct sunlight anywhere.
- Splitscreen free trial — Install the app and half the screen reaches full brightness immediately, side-by-side with standard brightness, so you can compare for free indefinitely.
- No performance impact — Uses the native HDR path already supported by the display; no noticeable CPU overhead or battery drain beyond normal brightness increase.
- Safe for your display — macOS still manages thermal throttling; MacBrightness only enables the HDR range that Apple already sustains for HDR editing.
- One-time purchase — $5 single license, $30 team (up to 5 devices), $50 company (up to 10 devices). No subscription.
Who is it for?
- Outdoor workers — Freelancers, remote workers, and travelers who need to use their Mac in direct sunlight on patios, park benches, or airport gates.
- Café regulars — People who work from bright coffee shops and want the window table without a mirrored screen.
- MacBook Pro owners with HDR-capable panels — Users of 14″ or 16″ MacBook Pros with M-series Pro/Max chips who want the extra brightness their hardware already supports.
What can you do with MacBrightness?
- Work on sunny patios: Crank brightness past the macOS limit to read your whole screen clearly in direct sun, usable in any app.
- Compare brightness instantly: The free Splitscreen Mode shows half the screen at full brightness vs. standard macOS so you can see the difference side by side before buying.
- Use on brightness keys: No new shortcuts; just tap the same keys you already use to go twice as far.
How does MacBrightness work?
Download and open the app (no account, ~30 seconds). It launches in Splitscreen Mode with half the screen at full brightness. Tap your brightness key past the old limit to activate the full range across the whole display. MacBrightness accesses the HDR brightness range that the display already maintains for video editing — no low-level hacks, no CPU overhead.
Pricing
MacBrightness is free in Splitscreen Mode (half screen bright) for unlimited time. Full-screen brightness requires a one-time purchase: Single license $5, Team license $30 (up to 5 devices), Company license $50 (up to 10 devices). All include free updates.
FAQ
Can I try MacBrightness before paying?
Yes. The app opens in Splitscreen Mode with half the screen at full brightness for free, as long as you like. Buy a license whenever you want to brighten the whole screen.
Does it slow down my Mac or kill battery?
No noticeable CPU overhead — it simply uses the HDR brightness range already supported. A brighter screen does draw more battery (same as dragging the slider up), so expect trade-off only when extra brightness is needed.
