| Rank | Software | Platform | Best For | Plugins | AI Tools | Get It |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Audacity | Win/Mac/Linux | Podcasting & basic recording | VST/LADSPA/Nyquist | None native | Download Audacity |
| 2 | GarageBand | Mac/iOS | Beginners & loop-based music | AU | Drummer tracks | Get GarageBand |
| 3 | Cakewalk by BandLab | Windows | Full DAW on Windows | VST/VST3 | Limited | Download Cakewalk |
| 4 | BandLab | Web/Mobile/Win/Mac | Cloud collab & quick ideas | Limited | Mastering | Get BandLab |
| 5 | Waveform Free | Win/Mac/Linux | Unlimited tracks & MIDI | VST/VST3 | None | Download Waveform Free |
| Rank | Software | Pricing | Best For | Plugins | AI Tools | Get It |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reaper | ~$60 (unrestricted eval) | Customizable everything | VST/VST3/AU/JS | Growing (ReaScript) | Get Reaper |
| 2 | Ableton Live | ~$99–749 | Live performance & loops | Max for Live + VST | Growing | Buy Ableton Live |
| 3 | FL Studio | ~$99–499 (lifetime updates) | Beat-making & production | VST/VST3/AU | Limited | Buy FL Studio |
| 4 | Studio One Pro | ~$399 or sub | All-in-one workflow | VST/VST3/AU | Chord track, etc. | Buy Studio One |
| 5 | Bitwig Studio | ~$399 or sub | Modular & creative | VST/VST3 + Grid | Operators | Buy Bitwig |
GarageBand, FL Studio Mobile, BandLab, and the rest — full roundup of on-the-go audio tools inside.
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