In an age where screens dominate our daily lives—whether for work, entertainment, or late-night browsing—managing their impact on our eyes and sleep patterns has become increasingly important. This is why ScreenTemperature is so useful. It is an open-source tool designed to give users granular control over their monitors’ color temperature and brightness.
Installation and Requirements
Unlike portable utilities, ScreenTemperature requires installation and relies on the latest version of .NET Runtime 8 to function. This dependency ensures compatibility with modern Windows systems (Windows 10 or newer) while leveraging a robust framework for performance. Once installed, the application launches a clean interface displaying all connected monitors, accompanied by three core options: Configurations, Key Bindings, and Parameters. This straightforward design belies the tool’s powerful customization capabilities, which cater to users seeking both comfort and convenience.
Custom Configurations
The heart of ScreenTemperature lies in its Configurations feature. Users can select a specific monitor from the list and create a new configuration tailored to their preferences. Within this configuration, options include adjusting the color temperature—shifting from cool, blue-heavy tones to warmer, sleep-friendly hues—or selecting a custom color. For monitors that support DDC/CI (Display Data Channel/Command Interface), brightness control is also available, offering a level of hardware integration not universally found in similar tools. Once saved, these configurations appear as clickable icons in the Configurations window, allowing users to apply changes instantly with a single click. The ability to craft multiple configurations for different monitors is a standout feature, ideal for multi-display setups where lighting needs may vary.
Hotkeys for Quick Access
Beyond manual application, ScreenTemperature enhances usability with its Key Bindings section. Here, users can assign hotkeys to their configurations, enabling rapid adjustments without navigating the interface. Whether you’re dimming a screen for a late-night coding session or warming the display for bedtime reading, these shortcuts streamline the experience. This feature transforms the tool into a seamless part of your routine, prioritizing efficiency alongside customization.
Flexible Parameters
Meanwhile, the Parameters section offers practical tweaks: users can opt to launch the application at login or start it minimized in the system tray, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into their workflow. These small but thoughtful options enhance ScreenTemperature’s utility, making it feel like a natural extension of the operating system.
Comparison to f.lux and Limitations
While ScreenTemperature shares similarities with f.lux—a well-known tool that adjusts screen color based on the time of day—it distinguishes itself through its manual, user-driven approach. Where f.lux automates adjustments using geolocation and lighting presets, ScreenTemperature hands control back to the user, prioritizing customization over automation. However, brightness control is limited to DDC/CI-compatible monitors, a hardware requirement that may exclude older or budget displays. Additionally, the need for up-to-date video drivers and .NET Runtime 8 could pose minor hurdles for less tech-savvy users.
Conclusion
In a digital landscape where blue light exposure is linked to eye strain and disrupted sleep, ScreenTemperature offers a refreshing, hands-on remedy. Its ability to fine-tune individual monitors, coupled with hotkey support and a lightweight footprint, makes it a valuable addition to any Windows user’s toolkit.
You can download ScreenTemperature from https://github.com/massaiTHEdog1/ScreenTemperature.