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SharpKeys VS OpenRGB

Compare SharpKeys VS OpenRGB and see what are their differences

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SharpKeys logo SharpKeys

SharpKeys is a utility that manages a Registry key that allows Windows to remap one key to any...

OpenRGB logo OpenRGB

OpenRGB is an all-in-one network-based software development kit that allows you to use third-party software to control all of your RGB.
  • SharpKeys Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-11-02
  • OpenRGB Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-14

SharpKeys features and specs

  • Open Source
    SharpKeys is available on GitHub, which means it is open source. This allows users to inspect the code, contribute to development, or customize it for their needs.
  • Free of Cost
    SharpKeys is entirely free to use, making it accessible to anyone without the need for a commercial license.
  • Simple User Interface
    The interface is straightforward and easy to use, which makes the process of remapping keys simple even for non-technical users.
  • Registry-Based Remapping
    SharpKeys makes changes directly to the Windows registry, ensuring that the remapped keys work across all applications without the need for additional software running in the background.
  • Minimal Resource Usage
    Because SharpKeys modifies the registry rather than running a constant background process, it uses minimal system resources.
  • Portability
    Once the registry changes are made, SharpKeys does not need to remain installed on the system, making it a lightweight, one-time-use tool.

Possible disadvantages of SharpKeys

  • Windows Only
    SharpKeys is designed to work exclusively on Windows operating systems, which limits its usability for users on macOS, Linux, or other platforms.
  • Limited to Registry
    The tool operates by modifying the Windows registry, so it cannot handle complex remapping scenarios that need real-time processing, such as conditional key mappings.
  • No Advanced Features
    SharpKeys lacks advanced features found in more sophisticated key remapping software, such as macro recording, multi-key remapping, or application-specific profiles.
  • Requires Admin Rights
    Since changes are made to the Windows registry, administrative privileges are required, which might be restrictive in some organizational environments.
  • Potential for Errors
    Incorrect registry changes could potentially lead to system instability or errors, especially for users who are not familiar with the Windows registry.
  • Reboot Required
    For registry changes to take effect, a system reboot is necessary, which can be inconvenient for users needing immediate results.

OpenRGB features and specs

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    OpenRGB supports multiple operating systems including Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it versatile for users on different platforms.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source, OpenRGB allows for community contributions and transparency in its development, fostering trust and continuous improvement.
  • Device Agnostic
    OpenRGB can control RGB lighting from a variety of manufacturers and devices, unifying lighting control in a single application.
  • Privacy
    OpenRGB does not require online connectivity or telemetry, ensuring users' privacy by avoiding data collection and server dependencies.
  • Customizability
    Users can create custom effects and profiles, and integrate OpenRGB with other software and hardware, offering extensive customization options.

Possible disadvantages of OpenRGB

  • Lack of Official Support
    As an open-source project, OpenRGB might not offer the same level of customer support and official troubleshooting as proprietary software.
  • Compatibility Issues
    Despite its broad device support, some hardware may not be fully compatible, leading to incomplete functionality or requiring user fixes.
  • User Interface
    The user interface might not be as polished or intuitive as some commercial alternatives, potentially presenting a learning curve for new users.
  • Feature Set
    While comprehensive, OpenRGB's feature set might not cover certain advanced functionalities found in some proprietary software specific to particular hardware.
  • Updates and Maintenance
    The frequency and reliability of updates and maintenance can vary, as they depend on community contributions and voluntary effort.

Analysis of SharpKeys

Overall verdict

  • SharpKeys is generally considered a good tool for users who need an easy and effective way to remap keys on Windows. It has a straightforward interface and does not require advanced technical skills to use, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It is also open-source and has a supportive community on GitHub, which contributes to its reliability and improvement over time.

Why this product is good

  • SharpKeys is a utility that allows users to remap keys on their Windows keyboards. It modifies the Windows Registry to achieve this, which is particularly useful for users who want to change the function of a specific key, disable a key, or swap keys to better match their personal typing preferences or overcome keyboard limitations.

Recommended for

    SharpKeys is recommended for Windows users who need to customize their keyboard layout, such as programmers, writers, or anyone who frequently uses specific key combinations. It is also suitable for users who want to disable keys that are accidentally pressed often, such as Caps Lock or Insert, as well as those who want to swap keys for ergonomic reasons or due to a damaged key on their keyboard.

Analysis of OpenRGB

Overall verdict

  • Overall, OpenRGB is a solid choice for users who prefer an open-source solution for managing RGB lighting on their computer. It offers robust functionality and flexibility, although it may require a bit more technical knowledge to set up compared to proprietary software.

Why this product is good

  • OpenRGB is considered good by many users because it is a powerful, open-source RGB lighting control application that allows for the customization and synchronization of lighting across a wide range of hardware from different manufacturers. It supports devices from various brands without the need for proprietary software, offering a centralized solution for RGB management. Additionally, it is highly customizable and community-driven, meaning it gets frequent updates and support from its user base.

Recommended for

    OpenRGB is recommended for DIY enthusiasts, gamers, and PC builders who want a customizable, brand-agnostic software solution for managing RGB lighting. It is ideal for those who value open-source applications and have a variety of RGB hardware from different manufacturers.

SharpKeys videos

+ Add

[Windows] Changing Modifier Keys Using SharpKeys | Reassigning Modifier Keys & SharpKeys Tutorial

More videos:

  • Tutorial - How to Map Keys with SharpKeys

OpenRGB videos

+ Add

how to start up openrgb with windows

More videos:

  • Demo - OpenRGB 0.3 - Setup and Demo on Windows

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to SharpKeys and OpenRGB)

SharpKeys

OpenRGB

Automation
100 100%
Automation
0% 0
Note Taking
34 34%
Note Taking
66% 66
Windows Tools
100 100%
Windows Tools
0% 0
Gaming
0 0%
Gaming
100% 100

User comments

Share your experience with using SharpKeys and OpenRGB. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OpenRGB should be more popular than SharpKeys. It has been mentiond 198 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

SharpKeys mentions (52)

  • Shortcut for rotating canvas by 15° left or right without a mouse
    I don't like using my mouse while drawing and I couldn't find how to do this anywhere, but luckily when I was about to give up I achieved it! So, for this you'll need a program called SharpKeys. You can download it here: https://github.com/randyrants/sharpkeys/. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Caps Lock Behaviour Disabled in Gnome
    Sharpkeys can swap keys, the readme says as much: > Things that SharpKeys will do: > ... > Allow you to swap two keys with each other - e.g. You can swap Left Windows with Left Control and vice versa I do have a vague recollection of Sharpkeys previously saying that it couldn’t, but that I tried and it worked. Long time since I last used Windows though. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • Total Commander
    > Total commander isn’t FOSS. I'm aware of that. There are lots of FOSS equivalents, though. Including, I believe, on Windows. Wikipedia lists 23 of which I think -- haven't checked -- the majority are FOSS. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File_manager#Orthodox_file_managers > Ironically windows 11 can’t do vertical taskbars. True. Easily fixed with Explorer Patcher, though. Which, ironically, is FOSS. > And... - Source: Hacker News / almost 2 years ago
  • Learn AutoHotKey by stealing my scripts
    Remapping Capslock to Control: Windows: https://github.com/randyrants/sharpkeys Ubuntu Linux (don't know about other Linuxes): /usr/share/X11/xkb/symbols/pc 
        key  { [ Caps_Lock  ] };
    . - Source: Hacker News / almost 2 years ago
  • Setup Media Key shortcuts
    SharpKeys: available in the Microsoft Store. Or you can get it here: https://www.randyrants.com/category/sharpkeys/ or here: https://github.com/randyrants/sharpkeys. Source: about 2 years ago
View more

OpenRGB mentions (198)

  • programs have multiple tabs open and 300mb of ram usage
    I don’t think you need any special software for the cooler, CAM just handles the RGB and I think the display on the block. If you can live without that (OpenRGB can potentially handle the RGB, not sure about the display) then you should be able to get rid of it (assuming NZXT let you uninstall it without needing a reinstall, unlike Asus and Armory Crate…). Source: over 1 year ago
  • MSI Center Mystic Light LEDKeeper2.exe High CPU Usage
    Openrgb.org works on all 3 of my MSI boards, Razor KB and mouse too. Small and simple. Source: over 1 year ago
  • td500 mesh fans
    If you've connected the ARGB Header to your Motherboard, you'll have to use some software like OpenRGB, but if not - try pressing the "Reset" button (located on the left-hand side of the Front Panel) which hopefully will switch between RGB modes. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Windows Dynamic Lighting RGB control on Linux ?
    Controlling RGB devices on Linux has always been kinda finicky. Too much proprietary nonsense and Windows-only software. With so many vendors jumping on this open standard would it potentially open up way more devices to be controlled by one app on Linux? Would a project like OpenRGB be able to get this working? I'm not a developer, so apologies if this ultimately means nothing. Source: over 1 year ago
  • RGB strip options for MAG B650 Tomahawk w/ WIFI
    You could try OpenRGB and see if it detects and allows you to change your lights. Source: over 1 year ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing SharpKeys and OpenRGB, you can also consider the following products

Karabiner - Karabiner, previously called KeyRemap4MacBook, is a very powerful keyboard remapper for Mac OS X.

Artemis RGB - An overview of the guides that'll teach you how to use Artemis

Key Manager - ATNSOFT Key Manager, Key Remapper, Text Paster

Logitech G Hub - Logitech G HUB is new software to help you get the most out of your gear. Quickly personalize your gear per game.

X-Mouse Button Control - XMouse Button Control (XMBC) allows you to create application and window specific profiles.

Razer Synapse - Razer Synapse is unified configuration software that allows users to rebind controls or assign...

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