3 of the best software programs to control your PC's RGB in 2024 (2024)

Controlling the RGB from your PC can sometimes be tricky, especially if you use components from different manufacturers. These days, practically every hardware manufacturer has their own proprietary RGB software, and sometimes they don't play nicely with each other. Thankfully, quite a few programs from third parties offer an easier-to-use alternative for PC-wide implementation of your RGB dreams.

The aim of third-party RGB software is to be able to sync RGB across all your components and devices, no matter the manufacturer. Being open-source allows the community to pitch in to help make sure things are up-to-date and ensure as much compatibility as possible across all the various products.

If you only have a single product with RGB such as PC case fans, or maybe just a few items from the same manufacturer, it could be worth trying their RGB software first, as it may be easier to set up in some cases. However, if you have gone all out with your RGB and have multiple products from multiple manufacturers, these third-party apps will be the way to go.

3 JackNet RGB Sync

A free and open source program, JackNet RGB also has a pro subscription that offers a few more neat features. You get the majority of features for free though, and the pro model is more of a donation than a subscription, but it does add the benefit of syncing over LAN and custom app themes. If you pay $15 for the one-time pro license, you will also get all future pro-exclusive features.

JackNet RGB is a bit dated and may not be the best choice of software to use if you have newer components. However, if you are using an older system, you may find that it works just fine. JackNet RGB boasts that it is compatible with multiple manufacturers' software and is rather simple to use. You can just drag and drop your LEDs into the groups you want them to sync with.

There is no mention of JackNet RGB being compatible with Windows 11. It only mentioned Windows 7,8 and 10. However, while it doesn't seem to have been updated in some time, the copyright year on the website says 2024, so it seems as if the team are still around.

2 OpenRGB

OpenRGB is another free and open-source software with cross-platform functionality. This means not only will it allow you to sync all your RGB devices, but you can do it whether you are on Windows, Linux, or even macOS. OpenRGB has been tested on x86, x86-64, Arm32, and Arm64 processors, as well as the Raspberry Pi to ensure maximum compatibility.

Coming with a lightweight user interface, the idea is to not only sync all your RGB devices but also to make things easy. The lightweight interface will spare your background resources, and make sure not to hog any of your RAM or CPU bandwidth. OpenRGB also comes with a plugin interface that will allow you to add new features and further reduce your need for other software.

OpenRGB takes things to the next level with its OpenRGB SDK, which allows for seamless integration with games, music, ambient lighting, and more. Again, this further establishes the fact that you don't need a bunch of programs to control your RGB as it can be done from a single piece of software.

1 SignalRGB

SignalRGB currently seems to be the most intuitive software for controlling your RGB. It is compatible with a myriad of products, which you can see a list of directly on the website. You can search for compatible products to see if the product you want to use is listed, and if not, you can even request that it be added.

The SignalRGB app itself is a lot more involved than both the OpenRGB and JackNet RGB apps, and for good reason. Not only does SignalRGB allow you to customize your RGB, it has plenty of other options as well, such as Macro support, fan monitoring, game integrations, and more. If you are looking to get the full experience, you may want to upgrade to the Pro model.

While you have complete control over your supported devices, SignalRGB also has some great profiles you can choose from. There are profiles for specific games, such as Apex Legends and Valorant, as well as chilled profiles for good vibes. The effects really are endless, and with new and updated effects coming all the time, you will never get bored of playing with your RGB.

Windows Dynamic Lighting controls

While the Windows Dynamic Lighting settings aren't mature enough yet to earn them a place on the list, I do feel it is worth an honorable mention. Yes, even Microsoft can tell that RGB software is in a state of disarray, and as such, they have added an option in Windows 11 to try and help make controlling your RGB a bit easier. Dynamic Lighting will allow you to control the lights on your peripherals, fans, and other compatible devices.

The Dynamic Lighting settings have some basic controls for your RGB lights. You can select colors from a predetermined set and use the customizer to get the exact color you want. There are also some effects you can choose from, such as solid color, breathing, rainbow, wave, wheel, and gradient. While these may not be the most advanced controls, they will be enough for most users to sync their RGB lighting on their devices.

There is also a setting that will allow you to use other compatible apps such as games and other RGB software to control your lighting. You can use multiple programs and even set a hierarchy to state which app controls which device's lighting and at what time. While the Dynamic Lighting settings are still fairly new, it is a step in the right direction for Microsoft. Hopefully, Microsoft will be inclined to further update these settings and add more functionality in the future.

Do you need a third-party app to control RGB?

No, you don't! You can always use the proprietary software that comes along with the various products you buy. While this won't allow you to completely sync all your products, you can set them to the same colors and effects. You may also find that inside your PC, you can daisy-chain your RGB or ARGB connectors and, in some instances, control them from your PC case without the need for software.

Controlling your PC's RGB has always taken a bit of effort, but it is great to see some new apps and programs that are trying to make it easier. Being able to have one program that is all-inclusive, no matter the manufacturer, is a step in the right direction to make RGB as fun and enjoyable as it should be.

Most manufacturers want to suck you into their own ecosystem. Hopefully though, in due time, we will start to see more manufacturers work with third-party RGB software companies to ensure a seamless way to control your various RGB elements. At the end of the day, RGB really is supposed to be something you enjoy, so let's make it as easy as possible.