COMPARISON · UPDATED 2026-09-28
A free browser-based alternative for streamers who want zero-install audio-reactive visuals.
Magic Music Visuals is desktop VJ software with a one-time licence. Vortexia runs in a browser, starts free and drops into OBS as a Browser Source.
Magic Music Visuals is a long-running desktop tool for performers who want customisable audio-reactive output. Vortexia is a browser-based engine designed for streaming workflows — every visual is a URL you paste into OBS Browser Source with audio reactivity built in. Vortexia is free to start with no install, while Magic requires a paid license and a desktop download. Both are audio reactive; the difference is in workflow. For streamers, Vortexia also reacts to Twitch, Kick and YouTube channel events, which Magic does not connect to.
| Feature | Vortexia | Magic Music Visuals |
|---|---|---|
| Price to start | Free ($0) | One-time licence from $44.95 (free demo) |
| Install | None — runs in any browser | Windows & macOS download |
| Built for | Streamers & content creators | Live performers |
| OBS integration | Native browser-source URL | Spout / Syphon (Performer edition) or window capture |
| Transparent output | No — a solid frame; blend or key it in OBS | Yes — Spout / Syphon carry alpha (Performer) |
| Per-band reactivity (bass/mid/treble) | Built in — no module wiring | Yes — via audio modules |
| Reacts to stream events (subs, bits, raids, hype trains) | Yes — each event drives its own distinct treatment | No — it has no connection to your Twitch or YouTube channel |
| Plan ladder | Free / Plus $49.99/yr / Pro $119.99/yr | Studio and Performer editions, one-time purchase |
You are a live performer who needs deep visual customisation on a desktop machine and you are comfortable routing audio and video manually, or you want to render finished music videos.
You are a streamer who wants visuals in OBS without a download, with a free tier, no install, and visuals that react to your channel’s events.