10 Best DAWs of 2024

Want to find the best DAW software available but don't know which one is best for your current setup?

A good DAW, or Digital Audio Workstation, will make editing and recording music a breeze, allowing you to make your favorite songs from scratch.

In this article, we've picked the best Digital Audio Workstations for everyone, covering multiple DAWs over a wide range of prices.

We also threw in a buyer's guide so you know exactly what to look for when you're shopping.

Our #1 pick for the best overall DAW software is the FL Studio 21 for its VFX sequencer, lifetime free updates, and customizable audio interface.

Keep reading to see if the FL Studio 21 is the best for you, or if there's another that fits you even better.

Quick Summary of the Best DAWs

  1. FL Studio 21 (Best Overall DAW)
  2. Samplitude Music Studio (Best DAW with 10+ Percussion Instruments)
  3. ACID Pro 11 (Best DAW with In-App Store)
  4. AVID Pro Tools (Best DAW with 500+ Songs)
  5. Steinberg Cubase Pro (Best DAW with Smart Suggestions)
  6. PreSonus Studio One 5 (Best Mid-Range DAW)
  7. Bitwig Studio 5 (Best DAW with Presets)
  8. MOTU Digital Performer 11 (Best DAW with Apple Support)
  9. n-Track Studio 9 Standard (Best Budget DAW)
  10. Reason Studios Reasons 12 (Best DAW with Diverse Sound Bank)

Best DAWs

1. Best Overall DAW – FL Studio 21

FL Studio 21

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS 10.13.6 or Later, Windows 8.1, 10, 11, or Later
  • Instruments and Effects: 91 Total
  • User Friendliness: Customizable Interface
  • Additional Features: 2 Separate Audio Editors (Edison and Newtone)

The FL Studio 21 is the latest version of the FL Studio from renowned audio editing software makers Image Line Software NV. It comes with some of the best features of any DAW software on this list, giving it a comfortable spot at the top of our list as the best overall digital audio workstation.

One of our favorite features of the Fruity Loops Studio 21 is the customizable interface. You can control your interface's hue, saturation, brightness, and more to get the perfect design. The Studio 21 also comes with a VFX Sequencer, Multi-band Delay, Vintage Phaser, and LuxeVERB.

The channel rack, piano roll, and mixer windows are all well-organized, allowing users to easily manage instruments, audio clips, and effects. Its step sequencer and piano roll are also praised for their ease of use and overall versatility.

At just over $150 at the time of writing, you can't go wrong with the FL Studio 21. It comes with enough features to keep those seasoned in the music industry on their toes and enough customization to attract new users. Check out the FL Studio 21 if you want the best DAW to record audio.

2. Best DAW with 10+ Percussion Instruments – Samplitude Music Studio

SPECS

  • Compatibility: Windows 10 and 11
  • Instruments and Effects: 32 Total
  • User Friendliness: Remote App Compatibility
  • Additional Features: Support for MIDI VST Plugins

The Samplitude Music Studio is a versatile and user-friendly Digital Audio Workstation that caters to musicians and producers of different skill levels. It provides a reliable set of tools for music production, making it a great choice for those looking to record, edit, and mix their music.

One of the standout features of Samplitude Music Studio is its intuitive and straightforward interface. The DAW's clean and well-organized layout ensures that both beginners and experienced users can navigate it with ease.

This DAW offers both audio and MIDI recording capabilities, along with a collection of virtual instruments that can spark creativity. The audio editing and mixing tools are thorough, allowing for precise control over your music's sound.

The Samplitude Music Studio includes a range of built-in effects and a virtual mixer with automation support, making it an all-in-one solution for music production needs. If you want to create music from scratch and want to use a popular DAW to do so, we recommend the Samplitude Music Studio.

3. Best DAW with In-App Store – ACID Pro 11

SPECS

  • Compatibility: Windows 8 and 10
  • Instruments and Effects: Countless with App Store
  • User Friendliness: Brainworx Emulations
  • Additional Features: Even More Content in App Store

Another great DAW from Magix, ACID Pro 11 is a unique DAW that stands out for its innovative approach to music production, particularly in the realm of loop-based composition. This latest iteration continues the tradition of ACID Pro, offering a creative playground for musicians and producers.

Magix has included some reviews of the ACID Pro 11 on their website and they come from some of the heaviest hitters in the music production space. Theo Green, Oscar-nominated producer for Blade Runner 2049, was quoted saying, "ACID Pro was my creative weapon of choice for Blade Runner 2049".

This DAW excels in seamlessly manipulating and arranging audio loops and samples, making it an ideal choice for musicians who rely on loops in their productions. This workflow is incredibly intuitive and efficient, allowing users to quickly experiment and create captivating musical compositions.

One of the ACID Pro 11's standout features is its app store. It comes with a litany of additional sounds and effects you can use to take your electronic production to the next level. Check out the ACID Pro 11 if you want the latest and greatest in DAW programs and audio processing.

4. Best DAW with 500+ Songs – AVID Pro Tools

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS Catalina 10.15.7 - Ventura 13.0.1 and Windows 10 and 11
  • Instruments and Effects: 512 Tracks
  • User Friendliness: iPad App
  • Additional Features: 1,024 MIDI Tracks

AVID Pro Tools has earned its rightful place as a titan in the space of music production. It's one of the top digital audio workstations and has been for a number of years. Pro Tools offers a comprehensive suite of features that cater to the needs of musicians, sound engineers, and post-production specialists.

Whether you're tracking a live band, editing vocals, or arranging intricate MIDI compositions, Pro Tools provides the tools and precision needed to achieve exceptional results. The editing features are extensive, allowing for seamless comping, pitch correction, and time manipulation all in one DAW.

Mixing in Pro Tools is a blast, with support for a vast array of industry-standard plugins and hardware integration. Sound engineers will appreciate the intuitive mixing environment and the ability to create sonically stunning mixes from almost any audio source.

Avid Pro Tools delivers a powerful and reliable platform for audio and music production, setting the gold standard in the industry. If you're looking for DAW software with over 500+ preset songs to take your audio production to the next level, check out Avid Pro Tools.

5. Best DAW with Smart Suggestions – Steinberg Cubase Pro

Steinberg Cubase Pro

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS Big Sur, Ventura, and Monterey, Windows 10 and 11.
  • Instruments and Effects: Unlimited
  • User Friendliness: Easy Side-Chaining and Track Icons
  • Additional Features: Dolby Atmos Capable

Steinberg Cubase Pro is a powerhouse for music production and audio recording. It's one of the most popular DAWs around due to its Pro Tools, virtual instruments, and overall music creation capabilities. It even comes with smart suggestions to give you tips on how to improve your production.

One of the Cubase Pro's most notable strengths lies in its solid MIDI and audio sequencing. Whether you're a composer working with virtual instruments or an electronic music producer crafting intricate beats, Cubase offers the tools to bring your musical ideas to life.

The DAW's software instruments, synthesizers, and effects are very high in quality, enabling sound designers and producers to explore a wide sonic palette. The powerful mixing console, automation, and flexible routing options make the mixing and production process simple and straightforward.

Steinberg Cubase is one of the best digital audio workstations we're featuring today. It comes with a smart suggestion feature so you're never stuck between ideas. Check out the Cubase if you want to track a live performance or want to edit and mix professional music.

6. Best Mid-Range DAW – PreSonus Studio One 5

PreSonus Studio One 5

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS 10.13 or Latest Version and Windows 10
  • Instruments and Effects: Studio One Native Effects
  • User Friendliness: Learning Tools and Community
  • Additional Features: All PreSonus Plug-Ins and Add-Ons Included

PreSonus Studio One 5 stands out as a powerful and user-friendly digital audio workstation that continues to win the hearts of musicians, producers, and sound engineers alike. With a blend of innovation and practicality, Studio One 5 offers an exceptional music production experience.

Studio One 5's mixing console is a testament to its professional-grade capabilities. It supports a wide array of third-party plugins, ensuring a dynamic and customizable mixing process. The software also offers a host of built-in audio effects, making it a versatile tool for sound design.

One of PreSonus Studio One 5's best features is its intuitive and well-organized interface. The drag-and-drop functionality, straightforward navigation, and clear visual layout make it easy for both novices and experienced users to accomplish their music production tasks.

PreSonus continues to impress with Studio One and its frequent updates, ensuring that it stays on the cutting edge of music production software. Check out the PreSonus Studio One if you want one of the best DAWs in audio production.

7. Best DAW with Presets – Bitwig Studio 5

Bitwig Studio 5

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS 10.13 or Later and Windows 7 SP1 or Later
  • Instruments and Effects: 154 Total
  • User Friendliness: Intuitive Context Aware Menu
  • Additional Features: FL Studio and Ableton Live Importing

Bitwig Studio 5 is a cutting-edge and highly innovative DAW that stands out for its unique approach to music production. With its forward-thinking features, it has gained a dedicated following among musicians and producers.

Audio professionals love Bitwig Studio 5 as DAW software for many reasons. It comes with fades and crossfades to speed up your workflow, smart tool switching for fast editing, and audio and MIDI clips that can exist on the same track.

Hybrid tracks, where audio and MIDI can coexist within the same channel, provide a convenient way to streamline composition and production. This flexible approach to combining different types of content is a testament to Bitwig's commitment to innovation.

Windows, Linux, and Mac users can all use Studio 5, making it great DAW software for anyone. It also has some of the best software instruments around, giving you the ability to take your music-making skills to the next level. Check out the Bitwig Studio 5 if you want some of the best Pro Tools around.

8. Best DAW with Apple Support – MOTU Digital Performer 11

MOTU Digital Performer 11

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS 10.13 or Later, Windows 10 or Later
  • Instruments and Effects: Nearly 2,000
  • User Friendliness: Consolidated Window
  • Additional Features: Melodyne 5 Included

MOTU Digital Performer 11 is not only a versatile DAW but also highly customizable, catering to the specific preferences and workflow requirements of its users. This flexibility is one of its defining features, along with its Apple compatibility.

Customizability is a strength that shines throughout the Digital Performer 11. Users can tailor the interface, key commands, and project settings to their liking. The DAW's modularity allows for a workspace that suits the individual's needs, enabling quick and efficient music production.

One aspect that truly underscores the Digital Performer 11 customization options is its powerful mixing environment. Users can configure and adapt the mixing console, channel strips, and routing to match their exact requirements.

The  MOTU Digital Performer 11 is one of the best in providing a highly customizable environment for electronic music production. Musicians seeking a DAW that adapts to their specific needs and preferences will find Digital Performer 11 to be a powerful and flexible ally in their music-making journey.

9. Best Budget DAW – n-Track Studio 9 Standard

n-Track Studio 9 Standard

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS 10.7 Lion or Later and Windows XP or Later
  • Instruments and Effects: 15GB+
  • User Friendliness: Screen Drumkit
  • Additional Features: Guitar Amp and Piano Roll

n-Track Studio 9 is an affordable software that offers a solid set of features for musicians, home studio enthusiasts, and those looking for a budget-friendly yet capable recording and mixing solution. While it may be our budget pick, Studio 9 can turn any music space into a recording studio.

For less than $100 at the time of writing, you're getting some of the best music production software out there. If you want to try before you buy, The free version offers a taste of what the software can do, while the paid versions provide additional features and a range of effects at a reasonable cost.

n-Track Studio 9 allows for multi-track recording, audio editing, and MIDI sequencing. Its straightforward interface makes it approachable for users of all skill levels. The software's built-in virtual instruments and support for third-party VST plugins expand the creative possibilities.

Studio 9 from n-Track comes with enough advanced features to make it an industry-standard DAW for recording music and editing software in general. It can handle a live performance as well as other DAWs for a fraction of the price; check out Studio 9 if you want a Pro Tools intro on a budget.

10. Best DAW with Diverse Sound Bank – Reason Studios Reasons 12

Reason Studios Reasons 12

SPECS

  • Compatibility: macOS 10.13 or Later and Windows 10 or Later
  • Instruments and Effects: Thousands of Effects
  • User Friendliness: Updated Customizable Combinator
  • Additional Features: Support for Ableton Live

Reason 12 by Reason Studios is a renowned digital audio workstation that has continually pushed the boundaries of music production. Reason has been recognized for its innovative features and intuitive design, making it a go-to choice for musicians and producers worldwide.

One of Reason's standout features is its unique "rack" interface, which mimics the setup of physical studio equipment. This approach offers a tactile and visual experience that many music creators find inspiring, allowing them to pursue music theory to its fullest.

You can combine this DAW with a score editor or full mixing console to get the most out of it. You don't have to use external hardware, however, as Reason 12 provides a vast array of virtual instruments, effects, and utility devices, allowing users to build complex signal chains with ease.

PC users will enjoy the vast audio library that comes with Reason 12. It can be considered the industry standard in music composition for a reason. Check out Reason 12 from Reason Studios if you want a helpful audio interface that is compatible with Ableton Live as well.

Best DAW Buyer's Guide

When you're in the market to get a new DAW, there are a couple of key features you need to keep in mind. Before you make your purchase, make sure your DAW is compatible with your current setup, has a great workflow and user interface, has great features, performs well, and can be licensed.

Compatibility

Ensure that the DAW you're considering is compatible with your operating system (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux). Some DAWs are exclusive to one platform, while others are cross-platform.

Check the minimum and recommended hardware specifications for the DAW to ensure your computer can run it effectively. Consider factors like CPU, RAM, and available storage.

Workflow and User Interface

Assess the DAW's workflow to determine whether it aligns with your creative process. Some DAWs have a linear, track-based approach, while others offer a more modular or pattern-based workflow.

The DAW's UI should be intuitive and user-friendly. It should allow you to navigate easily, access tools, and manipulate audio and MIDI tracks efficiently. Personal preference plays a significant role here, so choose a DAW that feels comfortable to you.

Features

Evaluate the DAW's feature set to ensure it covers your specific needs. Look for features such as MIDI file support, audio recording and editing, mixing capabilities, and built-in virtual instruments and effects. The feature set should align with your style of music production.

Consider whether the DAW supports third-party plugins, as these can significantly enhance your creative options. Check if it supports popular plugin formats like VST, AU, and AAX.

Performance

A DAW should run smoothly on your computer, even with a large number of tracks and plugins. Low latency is crucial for real-time recording and monitoring. Ensure the DAW can handle the demands of your projects without excessive strain on your system. A stable DAW minimizes crashes and data loss.

Licensing

Determine your budget and compare DAWs within your price range. DAWs come in various price points, from free and affordable options to premium software.

Understand the DAW's licensing model, whether it's a one-time purchase, subscription, or a free DAW with optional paid upgrades. Consider any additional costs for virtual instruments, effects, or sample libraries. Other DAWs come with a free version or even free lifetime updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a DAW, and what does it do?

A DAW is a software application used for recording, editing, and producing audio and music.

It serves as a complete digital studio, offering tools for recording live instruments and vocals, arranging and editing MIDI sequences, mixing multiple audio tracks, applying effects and processing, and mastering the final audio for distribution. Essentially, it's the central hub for music production.

What are the major DAWs available, and how do I choose the right one?

There are several popular DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Apple GarageBand, Ableton Live, FL Studio, Cubase, and more. The right DAW for you depends on your specific needs, budget, preferred workflow, and platform (Windows or macOS).

Try out the free version, assess their feature sets, and choose the one that best aligns with your musical style and preferences.

Do I need expensive gear to use a DAW effectively?

While high-quality gear can enhance your music production, you don't need expensive equipment to start using a DAW. Many DAWs work well with basic audio interfaces, MIDI data and controllers, and even built-in computer microphones.

The key is to learn your DAW's features and make the most of the tools available to you.

What's the difference between MIDI and audio tracks in a DAW?

MIDI tracks contain data that triggers virtual or external instruments, while audio tracks contain recorded audio waveforms.

MIDI tracks are versatile for composing and sequencing, while audio tracks are used for recording real instruments and vocals. DAWs allow you to work with both types of tracks within the same project.

What are VST plugins, and how can I use them in my DAW?

VST (Virtual Studio Technology) plugins are software instruments and effects that extend your DAW's capabilities.

To use them, you install the plugin on your computer, and your DAW detects and integrates them. You can add VST plugins to audio or MIDI tracks to apply virtual instruments or effects like EQ, reverb, or compressors.

Conclusion

The right DAW is more than just software on your computer, it's your digital workstation where you're creating electronic music, editing podcasts, using acoustic instruments and drum machines, and everything else related to your audio endeavors.

Our #1 pick for the best overall DAW is the FL Studio 21 for its vast array of effects and instruments, affordable price tag, and ease of use. If you're on a budget but still want a reliable DAW that will get the job done, look no further than the n-Track Studio 9 Standard DAW.

We hope this list sets you on your way to picking up the new DAW software you've been looking for. Don't hesitate to pick one up today!

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