Dual Monitor Tools vs Actual Multiple Monitors: Free vs $24.95
Actual Multiple Monitors is the classic paid alternative. Here’s what the $24.95 buys you over free DMT.
Head-to-head
| Dual Monitor Tools | Actual Multiple Monitors | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (GPLv2) | $24.95 single license; 30-day trial |
| Per-monitor taskbar | No | Yes — Start button, tray and clock per screen |
| Cursor lock | Yes — best in class | Basic |
| Window hotkeys | Swap Screen hotkeys + 100 custom areas | Window management with rules |
| Footprint | Under 1 MB, tray-only | Heavier background presence |
| Open source | Yes | No |
Choose DMT if…
- you want it free and lightweight
- cursor locking or hotkey window moves are the job
- open source matters to you
Choose Actual MM if…
- per-monitor taskbars are a must-have
- you want a polished all-in-one desktop overhaul
Bottom line: Try DMT first (free), then trial Actual Multiple Monitors for 30 days if you crave per-monitor taskbars. Many users end up keeping DMT for its cursor lock regardless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Actual Multiple Monitors better than DMT?
It’s different, not strictly better: Actual Multiple Monitors ($24.95) focuses on per-monitor taskbars and desktop polish, while DMT focuses on hotkey-driven window control and cursor locking — for free.
Is there a free trial of Actual Multiple Monitors?
Yes — Actual Tools offers a 30-day trial, so you can compare it against DMT yourself before paying.
Ready to try Dual Monitor Tools?
Free, open-source, and portable. Get version 2.13 now.
Download DMT v2.13 (Free)