Top 10 Best Etc Software of 2026

ONYX provides fixture creation tools, configurable playback pages, macros, effects, and show-file transfer between compatible Windows and NX systems. DYLOS adds layered pixel effects without requiring a separate programming environment for standard lighting looks. The software also supports Art-Net and sACN for network-based distribution across larger systems.

The broad control surface requires practice with playback organization, effect parameters, and console-specific hardware workflows. PC-based operation also requires compatible output hardware for physical DMX512 transmission. ONYX fits touring teams that build shows on a laptop and later operate them from an NX console.

Large productions can build reusable showfiles with playback pages, palettes, macros, and customized workspace layouts. Titan supports DMX512 output, Art-Net networking, MIDI, OSC, and remote operation through Titan Remote. Its personality system provides detailed fixture control for conventional fixtures, moving lights, LED products, and media-oriented devices.

Programming requires familiarity with Avolites terminology, page-based playback, and console navigation. The workflow suits festivals, concerts, and theatrical productions that need fast live edits, but it is less appropriate for teams needing browser-based collaboration or shared project documentation.

Martin M-PC mirrors the M-Series operating model on a Windows computer, including programming views, playback controls, fixture handling, and show-file operations. Programmers can prepare lighting states away from the venue and later transfer the work to compatible Martin control hardware. Martin fixture profile libraries reduce manual parameter setup for supported fixtures.

The main tradeoff is that dependable live output depends on compatible Martin interfaces or control hardware rather than software alone. M-PC fits touring programmers and small production teams that need to edit Martin shows on a laptop before arriving at the venue.

ETC Eos is electrical test and commissioning software tuned for lighting control commissioning workflows, especially console showfile management and cue building. It manages fixture profiles, patching, and channel behavior as part of show data, with configuration workflows that track changes across a production.

The tool supports integration points used in real shows, including DMX512-oriented networked control and import or export paths for show artifacts. Its strengths concentrate on showfile continuity and operational automation rather than generic work management for unrelated systems.

QLC+ performs fixture and show control from a single desktop workspace, with DMX output that can drive lighting scenes and cue sequences. It supports patching fixtures to DMX addresses and building playback via timelines and cue lists.

For ETC project management workflows, QLC+ can serve as the commissioning and visualization endpoint when those workflows need repeatable console-style playback. Its strengths concentrate on practical DMX showfile management rather than deep electrical commissioning documentation.

Lightkey is an ETC-focused workflow tool for managing lighting commissioning outputs rather than general project boards. It centers on organizing fixtures, channel mapping, and commissioning deliverables into one place so teams can align patch decisions with produced reports.

Lightkey also supports importing and exporting structured data formats for moving elements between design, patching, and handoff steps. For commissioning groups, the main differentiator is how its workflow ties configuration records to documentation artifacts used during turnover.

EcoStruxure Power Commission pairs commissioning project tracking with electrical power-centric documentation workflows, so test results and asset context stay tied to the network. It supports equipment and power distribution information management for MV and LV commissioning deliverables, including report output built around project activities. The tool also integrates with Schneider Electric ecosystems for data alignment across power systems and commissioning steps, which reduces rework when topology and equipment data change.

FieldTestPRO is a project and commissioning workflow tool focused on organizing field testing evidence for electrical and lighting systems. It centers on structured equipment and test record capture, then packages commissioning outputs into shareable reports.

The workflow connects test findings back to deliverables such as as-built documentation and fault logs so teams can trace issues through the project lifecycle. Admin control and automation options are aimed at repeatable reporting and consistent capture across multiple sites.

MADRIX RADAR performs offline analysis and monitoring for MADRIX-based lighting control networks to surface device health and signal issues before events run. It works around RADAR’s view of the Art-Net and sACN ecosystem and can correlate controller output to fixture and receiver behavior.

The tool focuses on operational visibility for patch and showfile-driven workflows rather than authoring cue lists. MADRIX RADAR also supports configuration for network scope so technicians can narrow troubleshooting to the relevant topology and subnets.

Ekip Connect targets electrical testing and commissioning workflows with project-centric organization and equipment documentation support. It coordinates test results, asset records, and commissioning outputs so teams can keep evidence aligned with the field activities.

The core differentiator is how ABB’s ecosystem connectivity and configuration assets reduce friction between design intent, installation, and commissioning closeout. Ekip Connect also fits teams that need repeatable reporting artifacts and structured handover packs instead of freeform note tracking.