mapplight.com / Guides / HeavyM alternative
A HeavyM alternative that runs on any device
Updated 6 November 2026 · 2 minute read
HeavyM made projection mapping approachable for artists, DJs and event makers: draw shapes, apply effects, sync to music. mapplight.com shares that goal, with a different approach: it runs in the browser on any device, ships with templates for common jobs, and has a free plan you can run a real show with. Here is how they compare.
1. Side by side
| mapplight.com | HeavyM | |
|---|---|---|
| Runs on | Any modern browser: Windows, Mac, Linux, ChromeOS, Android, iPhone, iPad | macOS and Windows desktop app |
| Phones and tablets | Yes, full editor and Go live over HDMI | No (desktop only) |
| Free use | Free plan, no watermark, saves projects | Free demo with no time limit; watermark and no saving |
| Paid | $9.99 for 90 days or $49 lifetime, one-time | One-time licences in several editions (Live, Pro, Pro+) |
| Built-in visuals | 108 real-time visuals in 24 packs, from concert beams to holiday themes | Built-in generative effects and sequences |
| Templates | Stage, building facade, house front, room, shop front, DJ booth, wedding cake and more | Draw your own shapes |
| Music sync | Browser tab audio, microphone and tap tempo | Audio analysis and BPM sync |
| Outputs | One per device | Multiple outputs in higher editions |
| Show control | Keyboard (looks 1–9, blackout, grid) | OSC, DMX and NDI in higher editions |
HeavyM details from heavym.net, checked November 2026. HeavyM is a trademark of its owner; mapplight.com is not affiliated with it.
2. When HeavyM is the better pick
- You need several video outputs from one computer.
- You need DMX, OSC or NDI to fit into a larger show system.
- You prefer a desktop app and want its generative effect engine and timeline.
3. When mapplight.com fits better
- The device is a phone, tablet or Chromebook, or a school or work laptop where you can't install software.
- You want to start free and keep your project: the free plan saves projects and has no watermark.
- You want a head start: pick a template for your stage, booth, cake or shop and the surfaces are already laid out.
- You want themed content for seasons and events (Halloween, Christmas, weddings, festivals) as well as stage and art visuals.
FAQ
Is there a free HeavyM alternative?
Yes. mapplight.com has a free plan with 108 visuals, projector output and saved projects, with no watermark and no time limit.
Is there a HeavyM alternative for iPad or Android?
mapplight.com runs in the browser on iPad, iPhone and Android tablets and phones. Connect an HDMI adapter and tap Go live.
Can mapplight.com do multiple projectors like HeavyM Pro?
Not from one device. It drives one projector output per device. If you need several outputs from one computer, HeavyM Pro, MadMapper or Resolume Arena are better choices.
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