The Underrated VJ Software List: Hidden Gems Shaping the Industry
With 285 comments pouring in from the VJ Union Global community (link), we’ve compiled an incredible list of software titles that are shaping the VJ industry in unique and powerful ways. From old-school classics to cutting-edge innovations, this list highlights some of the most underrated tools loved by VJs worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, there’s something here for everyone.
Visual Performance Tools
These tools are designed specifically for live visual performances and offer flexibility, creativity, and real-time interaction.
GrandVJ XT
A powerhouse for live video mixing and effects. Official Site
Modul8
A modular environment for creating stunning visuals and interactive performances. Official Site
Isadora by Troikatronix
A versatile tool for multimedia performance and interactive installations. Official Site
Millumin
Perfect for stage performances, exhibitions, and interactive installations. Official Site
Notch
A game-changer for real-time 3D visuals and motion graphics. Official Site
CoGe!
A modular VJ software for macOS that lets you create complex visuals with ease. Official Site
Real-Time Generative Visuals
These tools focus on generative art, algorithmic visuals, and real-time rendering.
TouchDesigner
The go-to platform for creating interactive and immersive experiences. Official Site
vvvv
A multipurpose toolkit for real-time video synthesis and creative coding. Official Site
Cables.gl
A browser-based visual programming environment for creative coding. Official Site
Veda.gl
A GLSL shader editor for creating stunning visual effects. Official Site
Radiance.video
A platform for real-time generative visuals and interactive storytelling. Official Site
Hexler Kodelife
A real-time GLSL shader editor for live-coding visuals. Official Site
Audio-Reactive Visualizers
These tools sync visuals with audio, making them perfect for music-driven performances.
SoundSpectrum
A suite of tools for creating audio-reactive visuals. Official Site
Autolume
Automatically generates visuals based on your music. Official Site
https://vjun.io/vdmo/autolume-a-neural-network-based-visual-synthesizer-2iih
Magic Music Visuals
Create stunning visuals synchronized with music. Official Site
Winamp Visualizer + MilkDrop
A nostalgic favorite for audio-reactive visuals. MilkDrop Info
Nestdrop
Realtime Music Visualizer
https://nestimmersion.ca/nestdrop.php
Synesthesia.live
Live Music Visualizer
https://synesthesia.live
Projection Mapping & Interactive Tools
These tools excel at projection mapping and interactive installations.
HeavyM
An intuitive tool for projection mapping and interactive visuals. Official Site
MadMapper
A professional-grade tool for projection mapping and LED mapping. Official Site
Visions of Chaos
A tool for exploring chaos theory and creating generative visuals. Official Site
Creative Coding Platforms
For those who love to code their own visuals, these platforms provide endless possibilities.
Processing
A flexible software sketchbook for creative coding. Official Site
Max/MSP Jitter
A visual programming language for music, audio, and visuals. Official Site
Pure Data
An open-source visual programming language for multimedia. Official Site
OSSIA
A framework for interactive media and spatialized audio. Official Site
Mobile & Portable Tools
These apps bring VJ capabilities to your smartphone or tablet.
V4M App (iOS & Android)
A mobile app for live visuals and effects. Official Site
Arkestra
A collaborative app for live audio-visual performances. Official Site
Underground & Experimental Tools
These lesser-known tools are hidden gems in the VJ world.
Simmetri
A surreal sandbox for creating immersive visuals. Official Site * At present this is closed to public, only available to those who purchased this previously.
Lumen
A tool for creating generative visuals and interactive installations. Official Site
Fragment:Flow
A node-based visual programming tool for real-time graphics. Official Site
VPT8
Video Projection Tool for projection mapping and live visuals. Official Site
Whorld
A psychedelic visualizer for live performances. Official Site
Legacy & Nostalgic Tools
These older tools laid the foundation for modern VJ software.
Winamp AVS
The classic Advanced Visualization Studio from Winamp. Info
Electric Sheep
A distributed screensaver that generates fractal visuals. Official Site
Infini-D
A pioneering 3D animation and rendering tool. Info
Browser-Based & Online Tools
These tools run directly in your browser, making them accessible and easy to use.
Signal Culture Apps
A collection of browser-based tools for experimental visuals. Official Site
Circulation
A browser-based tool for live visuals and effects. Official Site
Honorable Mentions
- Blender + TouchDesigner: Combine Blender’s 3D modeling with TouchDesigner’s interactivity.
- Unity3D: A game engine repurposed for immersive visuals.
- GL Mixer / VMIX: Tools for live video mixing.
- PowerPoint: Surprisingly effective for simple presentations and animations.
- Ebosuite and Txt3r: Tools for integrating visuals with Ableton Live.
- OpenTZT
- Bazik
- moshpro.app
- ZVector
- Alc freeliner
- Jwildfire
- Vsynth
- Videodelic
- Pilgrim
- VisualJockey
- xnth
- Acid Warp
- Motion Dive Tokyo
- OBS
- VLC
- Fraksl
- Virtual dj
- Cathodemer
Final Thoughts
This list is a testament to the creativity and diversity within the VJ community. Whether you’re drawn to real-time generative visuals, audio-reactive tools, or experimental platforms, there’s no shortage of options to explore. Many thanks to the VJ Union global community for sharing their favorite tools and contributing to this comprehensive list.
Got a favorite VJ tool that didn’t make the list? Share it in the comments below!
Discussion (6)
Fun & I can still remember Infini-D well, although my journey into the world of CGs began a little earlier in the era of B/W-monitors (monochroms) with Ataris. Mac's were almost the norm back then and who would have thought what was to come in all up to this days?
& Just "Sound Spectrum", which you can actually add to the "Legacy & Nostalgic Tools" too, was a big step forward for me back then and today we're at a crossroads where programs are already taking over the creative process themselves and this AI's will most likely soon phase us out as digital artists to next.
Well, time seems to be racing instead of moving and I can only just keep up so hard and harder day by day!
There is so much more that could be added to this list, but here at VJun.io in the main menu there is a very exemplary, even more comprehensive list that you won't find anywhere else for our interests and needs. Compliments to VDMO, it really is very great. I would, however, like it being possible to set listing criterias, such as flexibly categorizing everything according to open source, free of charge, subject-specific, or other categories, but you can never be completely without wishes, and as already mentioned, that list at the mainmenue is already a masterpiece. Keep it up VDMO & frinds!
I'm itching to do comprehensive database of tools for visuals and av soon.
But that will be a backbreaking, life-long endeavor in itself. I therefore suggest continuing the existing list and slightly expanding it, for example, by adding an abbreviation like o-s for open source, f for freeware, or the price in USD after the software name. Categories already exist.
Thanks for your great work so far. I've already been able to find some great software through it, and if I come across something suitable, I'm happy to share it here so you can add it to the list.
Visions of Chaos link doesn't work.
@graham_t cheers bro.. fixed now!
VJ Union is also on daily.dev
dly.to/sxtt1NZRzRx