Uncovering the Best Gromit-MPX Alternatives for Desktop Annotation

Gromit-MPX is renowned as a multi-pointer GTK3 port of the original Gromit desktop annotation tool. It revolutionized graphical annotations by allowing multiple pointers simultaneously and boasting a significant speed increase due to its use of the XCOMPOSITE extension. However, for various reasons, users often seek a reliable Gromit-MPX alternative. Whether it's platform compatibility, specific feature requirements, or a desire for a different user experience, there's a vibrant ecosystem of annotation tools ready to fill the void.

Top Gromit-MPX Alternatives

If you're looking to annotate your desktop, highlight presentations, or simply sketch over applications, these alternatives offer robust solutions to replace Gromit-MPX.

Epic Pen

Epic Pen is an intuitive desktop overlay and screen marker that allows you to write and draw over other desktop applications. Available on Windows as a freemium offering, it provides a straightforward approach to annotations, making it a strong contender for those seeking a simple yet effective Gromit-MPX alternative.

Ardesia

Ardesia transforms your desktop into a sketchpad, enabling you to write, markup, and erase while still using your desktop normally. This free and open-source tool is available for Windows and Linux, making it an excellent open-source Gromit-MPX alternative. It also boasts powerful features like screen recording, audio recording, screen mirroring, screenshot tools, and even video making capabilities.

FlySketch

FlySketch, from Flying, allows you to draw on top of any program, filling a niche for applications that lack their own drawing features. This free Mac-only software focuses on sketching and offers robust tablet support, making it a compelling Gromit-MPX alternative for macOS users who need precise annotation.

Ultimate Pen

Ultimate Pen is a commercial software solution for Mac that creates a full-screen, transparent window, allowing you to draw on top of most applications. It provides a dedicated drawing functionality, acting as a direct replacement for Gromit-MPX's core annotation capabilities on the macOS platform.

Desktop Board

Desktop Board allows you to draw directly on your desktop with ease. Simply click 'Turn On' and you're ready to sketch. This commercial Mac app is ideal for quick sketches or for kids to express creativity, offering drawing, notetaking, pencil, and sketch features as a versatile Gromit-MPX alternative.

Crealesson

Crealesson is an all-inclusive kit for video tutors, YouTubers, and digital educators. This free personal use software for Windows provides multi-board draw-on-screen functionality, markers, and on-screen mouse and keyboard displays. Its advanced markers, drawing board, and keypress visualization make it a powerful and feature-rich Gromit-MPX alternative for educational and presentation purposes.

With a diverse range of features, platforms, and pricing models, these Gromit-MPX alternatives ensure that you can find the perfect tool to meet your desktop annotation and drawing needs. Explore each option to discover the best fit for your workflow and preferences.