> The key difference from perf is that instead of sampling call stacks throughout time, magic-trace uses Intel Processor Trace to snapshot a ring buffer of all control flow leading up to a chosen point in time[2].
> 2. perf can do this too, but that's not how most people use it. In fact, if you peek under the hood you'll see that magic-trace uses perf to drive Intel PT.
I think this (the first sentence quoted) is a bit misleading. The main feature is not really a "key difference from perf" if the main feature is implemented using perf. From a brief read, it looks like the real key difference is a friendlier and more interactive UI (both when capturing and viewing the trace).
Regardless, I think it looks neat, and will try to take it for a spin sometime soon.
> 2. perf can do this too, but that's not how most people use it. In fact, if you peek under the hood you'll see that magic-trace uses perf to drive Intel PT.
I think this (the first sentence quoted) is a bit misleading. The main feature is not really a "key difference from perf" if the main feature is implemented using perf. From a brief read, it looks like the real key difference is a friendlier and more interactive UI (both when capturing and viewing the trace).
Regardless, I think it looks neat, and will try to take it for a spin sometime soon.