Pick gmod-lsm if…
You want two free screens and don't mind the watermark, or you prefer a small monthly payment over a yearly one. It's an established tool with a long track record.
GModComparison
Lumescreen vs gmod-lsm
gmod-lsm.com is one of the best-known GMod loading screen makers, and a perfectly reasonable tool. This page compares it with Lumescreen — factually — so you can pick the right one for your server.
Short version: gmod-lsm is a solid basic maker with a cheap monthly plan; Lumescreen focuses on distinctive premium themes, deeper analytics, no watermark on the free plan, and a pay-once Lifetime option.
- Facts checked July 2026
- No watermark on Lumescreen Free
- Lifetime option — pay once
Side by side
Feature comparison
Both tools are hosted (no web server needed) and install via one sv_loadingurl line. The differences are in what's around the screen.
| Feature | Lumescreen | gmod-lsm |
|---|---|---|
| Hosting included | ||
| Free plan | 1 screen, no watermark | 2 screens, watermarked |
| Watermark on free screens | None | “Powered by gmod-lsm.com” banner |
| Paid plan | €25/year | $2.59/month (~$23.87/year) |
| Pay once, keep forever | Lifetime — €50 one-time | |
| Max screens (paid) | 10 | 4 |
| Themes | 15 designed themes | Preset layouts |
| Analytics | Full: retention funnel, devices, peak hours, load times | Server analytics (Pro) |
| Music, slideshows, staff roster | ||
| Blog & setup guides |
gmod-lsm details from gmod-lsm.com (free tier and Pro at $2.59/month), checked July 2, 2026. Prices and limits may change — verify on their site.
Where each wins
An honest take
Pick Lumescreen if…
You want a watermark-free screen on the free plan, distinctive themes rather than presets, real retention analytics, up to 10 screens for a network — or you'd rather pay once (Lifetime) than subscribe.
Either way
Both install the same way — one line in server.cfg. Our sv_loadingurl guide applies to any hosted loading screen, including theirs.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- Is it easy to switch from gmod-lsm to Lumescreen?
- Yes. Create your screen on Lumescreen, then replace the URL in your server.cfg's sv_loadingurl line and restart. Nothing else on your server changes, and you can switch back just as easily.
- Is Lumescreen more expensive than gmod-lsm?
- Annually they're close: €25/year for Lumescreen Premium vs about $23.87/year for gmod-lsm Pro. The real difference is the Lifetime option (€50 once, no subscription) and what each plan includes — 10 screens and full analytics vs 4 screens.
- Does Lumescreen watermark free loading screens like gmod-lsm does?
- No. Lumescreen's free plan renders your screen without any watermark or banner. That's a deliberate difference.
- Are these comparison facts up to date?
- They were verified on gmod-lsm.com on July 2, 2026. Competitors evolve — if you spot something outdated, check their site for current details.
Ready to impress your players?
Create your first loading screen for free. No credit card, in just a few minutes.