13 Best FREE DAW Software for Windows (2025)

DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is an application or electronic device used for recording, editing, and producing audio. These tools provide real time preview with different sound effects. Free music making software allows working with MIDI files with a wide range of music effects and high-resolution themes.

After spending over 80 hours researching, I have reviewed 30+ of the best free and paid DAW software options for Windows. This comprehensive guide includes insights on key features, pros and cons. Whether you’re looking for a free or paid solution, my well-researched analysis will help you choose the best fit for your needs. Be sure to read the full article for the ultimate and trusted recommendations. Read more…

Best Free Daw Software: Download for Windows & Mac

Name	Tracks Record	Tracks Playback	Supported Platforms	Free Trial	Link
👍 Adobe Audition	One or more tracks for recording.	Unlimited	Windows and Mac.	7-Days Free Trial	Learn More
FL Studio	Unlimited	Unlimited	mac and Windows	Download for Free	Learn More
Pro Tools Intro	Unlimited	Unlimited	macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS	30-Days Free Trial	Learn More
Soundtrap	Unlimited	Unlimited	macOS, Windows, Android	30-Days Free Trial	Learn More
Audacity	Unlimited	Unlimited	Windows, Android, macOS	Download for Free	Learn More

1) Adobe Audition

Adobe Audition is one of the best DAW software that I reviewed with waveform and multi-track display to create, mix, edit, and restore audio content. This workstation is designed to speed up video production and audio workflows. Supported platforms are Windows and Mac.

Features:

• Audio Repair: The audio break can be repaired precisely, creating smooth transitions and better listening experiences.
• Music Editing: I find it helpful to record, edit, and integrate music clips for an efficient production process.
• Podcast Mixing: This platform is great for mixing podcast audio, offering everything needed to create content easily.
• Sound Panel: The integrated sound panel offers essential features to add depth and oomph to your audio.
• Professional Sound: The integration of music clips makes your audio recordings sound much more polished and professional.
• Multiple Formats: This software is compatible with multiple audio formats, making it versatile for various projects.

👉 How to Get Adobe Audition for Free?

• Go to Adobe Audition
• Click on “Free Trial” to start your 7-day free trial.

Visit Adobe Audition

7-Days Free Trial

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2) FL Studio

FL Studio is a music production environment that helps you compose and edit music. It also allows you to arrange, record, and mix music. It enables you to quickly create sound patterns and sequencing, which I particularly appreciate. You can use this application to add harmonies and melodies to your production.

Features:

• Plugin Variety: With over 80 plugins included, FL Studio provides all you need to create professional music tracks.
• UI Customization: You can resize the interface to suit your needs, enhancing the overall user experience and workflow.
• MIDI Support: MIDI support allows me to easily control external instruments, making my productions more dynamic.
• Live Recording: Record live moments and make real-time edits, giving you full control over your creative process.
• 4K Rendering: This is one of the best free DAWs for Windows, enabling you to easily render high-quality 4K videos.

👉 How to Get FL Studio for Free?

• Go to FL Studio
• Hit the “Start Free Trial” button to download the software at no cost.

Visit FL Studio >>

Download for Free

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3) Pro Tools Intro

Avid Pro Tools Intro is DAW software that offers a wide variety of sound editing toolset. It enables you to edit audio and MIDI tracks. This free DAW app supports drag and drop features, which helped me streamline my projects.

Features:

• Plugin Variety: The program comes with over 23 plugins, giving me the tools I need for diverse music creation.
• Beginner-Friendly: It’s one of the best free DAWs for beginners, featuring simple solo and mute effects for easy control.
• MIDI Editing: This application allows me to edit MIDI files, helping to adjust compositions and instrumentations easily.
• Cloud Collaboration: Cloud collaboration makes it easier to share and edit projects, facilitating teamwork across distances.
• Nondestructive Editing: Nondestructive editing enables you to make changes to audio without overwriting the original, preserving your work.

👉 How to Get Avid Pro Tools for Free?

• Go to Avid Pro Tools
• Click on the “Start Free Trial” button to claim your 30-day free trial, and begin by entering your email to get started.

Link: https://www.avid.com/pro-tools

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4) Soundtrap

Soundtrap is one of the best DAW software that helps you quickly make songs. This application offers a large selection of loops, beats, and instruments. Soundtrap allows you to record and edit songs on any device, and it is the most versatile tool I have used.

Features:

• Collaboration Tools: This tool enables me to collaborate with others, making team projects more accessible and effective.
• Voice Modulation: You can modify your voice with ease and create professional sounds for any project.
• Beat Library: It offers over 4000 high-quality beats, helping me find the best rhythm for my music.
• Instrument Connectivity: You can easily connect microphones, guitars, and other instruments, enhancing your recording flexibility.

👉 How to Get Soundtrap for Free?

• Go to FL Studio
• Select “Sign Up for Free” to create your account without any charge.

Link: https://www.soundtrap.com/musicmakers

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5) Audacity

Audacity is one of the best open source DAWs (Digital Audio Workstation software). It uses a multi-track editor that helps you easily edit sounds. This app enables you to import or export files such as MP3, WAV, OGG, and FLAC, which I recommend.

Features:

• Sound Quality: Supported sound qualities include 16-bit, 24-bit, and 32-bit, ensuring high-quality audio output.
• Editing Tools: Editing is straightforward, using the cut, copy, paste, and delete options, streamlining the workflow.
• Real-Time Preview: It provides a real-time preview, showing applied sound effects before finalizing the edit.
• Keyboard Control: The software can be fully manipulated using the keyboard, which allows me to work faster.
• Frequency Visualization: You can visualize the selected frequency, helping you adjust audio levels more accurately.

👉 How to Get Audacity for Free?

• Go to Audacity
• Click on “Try for Free” to initiate your free download and experience the product at no cost.

Link:https://www.audacityteam.org/

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6) Waveform

Waveform is one of the best free DAW tools that allows unlimited audio and MIDI tracks to make high-quality songs. I evaluated it to generate patterns and fine control.

Features:

• Audio Effects: It is one of the best free music-making software, letting me apply effects to individual audio clips easily.
• VST Support: This DAW supports VST plugins, enabling me to integrate additional audio effects and instruments.
• Recording Options: You can record both band and podcast music with this free DAW for Windows, simplifying audio production.
• Virtual Drum: Playing a virtual drum is an easy way to create drum beats and rhythms directly in the software.

👉 How to Get Waveform for Free?

• Go to Waveform
• Press “Download” to register and create your free account.

Link:https://www.tracktion.com/products/waveform-free

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7) SoundBridge

SoundBridge is a free digital audio workstation that allows you to edit songs with other musicians. This app offers complete third-party driver support, allowing me to streamline my workflow.

Features:

• Audio Editing: The software allows me to edit audio with ease, simplifying complex tasks and saving valuable time.
• Collaboration: It enables collaboration, allowing me to work effectively with others on music projects and share files easily.
• Touch Interface: This DAW is one of the best options with a touch interface, providing a smoother and more interactive experience.
• High-Resolution Themes: The software features high-resolution themes and provides an extensive library of freeware effects to enhance audio production.
• MIDI Mapping: One of the best features is its MIDI mapping, which allows me to easily control and customize my instruments.

👉 How to Get SoundBridge for Free?

• Go to SoundBridge
• Click on “Try SoundBridge” to register and start your free account.

Link:https://soundbridge.io/

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8) Reaper

Reaper is one of the best free DAW software for Windows. I evaluated it, and it can run on a network drive. It offers many plugins for adding effects and virtual instruments, which is excellent for developing diverse tracks. This free DAW supports 64-bit audio processing.

Features:

• Audio Recording: You can record audio in any format, ensuring flexibility for various project types and needs.
• File Importing: The drag-and-drop feature allows you to easily import, arrange, and render audio files for efficient workflow.
• Audio Editing: I find it easy to move, split, resize, and loop any audio, giving me full control over my project.
• Channel Support: This DAW supports more than 64 routable channels, making it one of the best free options available.
• Customization Options: It helps you customize colors, toolbars, layouts, and icons to create a setup tailored to your needs.
• Tempo & Effects: Managing tempo is hassle-free, and you can apply effects in real time to enhance your sound.

👉 How to Get Reaper for Free?

• Go to Reaper
• Click on “Download REAPER” to get the software for free.

Link: https://www.reaper.fm/

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9) Zenbeats

Zenbeats is one of the best DAW tools. It offers virtual instruments like electric guitar, synth, organ, and bass. This app is easy to use for electronic music production, and it is the most versatile tool I have used.

Features:

• Touch Interface: This DAW offers a touch-based interface, allowing me to loop sound easily and improving my workflow and creativity.
• Built-in Effects: It provides over 90 MFX effects, offering a wide range of sound options to enhance your music production.
• Instrument Variety: Covering acoustic, electronic, and ethnic instruments, this software provides diverse sound options for any music genre.
• Cloud Integration: It integrates with Google Drive and OneDrive, allowing for smooth file management and collaboration across platforms.

👉 How to Get Zenbeats for Free?

• Go to Zenbeats
• Click on “Download” to get the software for free.

Link:https://www.roland.com/us/products/zenbeats/

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10) Garageband

Garageband is one of the best free DAW tools for Mac. During my research, I found that it provides a sound library with guitars, drums, and other instruments. Garageband allows you to share your tracks via social networks or email.

Features:

• Music Creation: It offers an easy and fast way to create and share music, making it accessible for all creators.
• No Instruments Needed: You can make professional-sounding music without any physical instruments, providing flexibility in your production process.
• Virtual Drummer: This free music production software enables me to create a virtual drummer session, enhancing my projects.
• Learning Lessons: With built-in learning lessons, this DAW provides helpful tutorials to guide you through the production process.
• Track Mixing: Garageband allows you to create and mix more than 255 audio tracks, offering endless possibilities for your projects.

👉 How to Get Apple Garageband for Free?

• Go to Apple Garageband
• Click on “Download GarageBand for Mac” to get the software for free and start your creative journey.

Link:https://www.apple.com/in/mac/garageband/

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11) Podium Free

Podium Free is a tool that helps you to mix and edit MIDI audio files. It is one of the best free DAWs that allow you to work on multiple projects with ease. This app enables you to add sound effects to audio files or change sample rate, channel, pitch bend, which I particularly liked.

Features:

• Plugin Creation: It allows you to build your own plugin, providing a solution to customize your production setup.
• Custom UI: Offering a customizable user interface, this DAW allows me to adjust my workspace for better efficiency.
• VST Support: You will get a VST (Virtual Studio Technology), which is perfect for integrating additional effects and instruments.
• Multi-Channel Audio: It provides multi-channel audio, offering full control over different tracks for complex and layered projects.
• Commercial Use: This DAW is one of the best for commercial purposes, supporting professional needs with high-quality features.
• Portable Use: You can use this software without installation, offering a quick and convenient way to produce music anywhere.

👉 How to Get Podium Free for Free?

• Go to Podium Free
• Click on “Download” to get the software for free.

Link:https://zynewave.com/podium-free/

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12) Cakewalk by Bandlab

Cakewalk by Bandlab is among the best free DAW software for Windows, allowing me to use unlimited MIDI and audio tracks. In my opinion, it is the best way to add drum sounds to my music quickly. This free digital audio workstation lets me mix sounds clearly.

Features:

• Song Publishing: You can publish your songs directly to Facebook, SoundCloud, YouTube, and other platforms for easy access.
• Mix Polishing: It allows you to polish your finished mixes, fine-tuning every aspect of your track for perfection.
• Creative Tools: This free DAW software allows you to easily compose songs and performances with creative tools at your disposal.
• Studio Effects: It provides studio-quality effects, enhancing the overall sound of your music to professional standards.

👉 How to Get Cakewalk by Bandlab for Free?

• Go to Cakewalk by Bandlab
• Click on “Download” to get the software for free.

Link:https://www.bandlab.com/products/cakewalk

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13) Logic Pro X

Logic Pro X is a tool that can turn my Mac into a professional recording studio. I checked the software’s DJ style effects and transitions for tracks. It lets me mix my music collection easily.

Features:

• Live Loop Control: You can control live loops directly from your iPhone or iPad, providing flexibility and mobility in music creation.
• Quick Beat Building: It allows you to quickly build drumbeats, melodic parts, bass lines, and more, enhancing creative workflows.
• Onscreen Instruments: You can play a variety of onscreen instruments, including guitars, drum pads, and keyboards, for dynamic performances.
• Track Creation: Logic Pro allows you to create audio tracks with more than 1000 software tracks, offering endless possibilities.
• MIDI Editing: This browser DAW software helps you record, edit, and manipulate MIDI performances, providing full control over compositions.

👉 How to Get Logic Pro X for Free?

• Go to Logic Pro X
• Click on “Free Trial,” then select “Download Now” to get the software at no cost.

Link: https://www.apple.com/in/logic-pro/

What is DAW Software?

DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is an application or electronic device used for recording, editing, and producing audio. These tools provide real time preview with different sound effects. Free music making software allows working with MIDI files with a wide range of music effects and high-resolution themes.

How Did We Choose Best FREE DAW Software for Windows?

At Guru99, we are committed to providing accurate, relevant, and objective information through thorough research and content creation. After spending over 80 hours reviewing more than 30 DAW software options, both free and paid, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide with insights on key features, pros, and cons. Finding the best free DAW software for Windows can be overwhelming, but understanding the most important factors makes the decision easier. Check out the important factors below to consider, ensuring you get the right tools for your audio production needs and choosing the best software for your requirements.

• Features: Look for software that offers essential tools for recording, editing, and mixing audio tracks.
• User Interface: A clean and intuitive interface is important for a smooth workflow, especially for beginners.
• Compatibility: Ensure the software is compatible with your Windows version and supports the necessary plugins.
• Performance: It is important that the software runs efficiently on your system without causing lag or crashes.
• Expandability: Choose a DAW that allows you to easily add more features through plugins or add-ons.
• Your budget: If you have to simply cut or edit music and do not require any advanced features, then consider using an online digital audio workstation or free software. For professional needs, you must purchase powerful software that makes your work easy.
• Operating system and hardware of your computer: It is useless if your DAW software is not compatible with your current OS and hardware of your computer. Therefore, it is good that you check the compatibility before choosing the right DAW program.
• Your goal: This is important to choose DAW software. You need to check the features based on your objective of using it.

What are the applications of DAW Software?

Here are the important applications of DAW software:

• Record and manage the music: DOW applications are the right choice for the people who want to record album with a live instrument and a virtual orchestra.
• Reverb: Reverb is important for any music producer. It can liven up the dead recording and help you to play vocal sounds in a natural way.
• Use Autotune: Autotune is generally used in every major pop song. It is used for fixing up the pitch of vocal and altering the sound of the person.
• Digital or MIDI keyboard: DAW software comes with a digital or MIDI keyboard that is used to construct the layers of the song with great attention.
• Remix songs: DAW software is good for mixing multiple songs together. It helps you to make your own DJ like music with no hassle.
• Perform live set: DAW programs helps you to perform a live set. You can easily use these applications to set up backing tracks to play vocals and piano you like.
• Practice instrument: DAW applications enable you to learn a new instrument. You can use this software to record yourself playing a keyboard and gives motivation by visible progression.
• Become a mixing engineer: Mixing is the process of combining multiple songs together. The main goal of DAW software is to arrange the instrument volume withing song and avoid clashes between tracks.

What are the advantages of DAW Software?

Here are the pros/cons of DAW software:

• High-quality real-time audio transpose facility.
• The DAW software has a large database of real-world instruments.
• The essential sound panel is integrated with the program to get the best oomph effect to the audio.
• The music clips can be integrated within the audio recording to make it sound professional.
• DAW software can import and export multiple audio formats.
• You can play varieties of on-screen instruments like guitars, drum pads, and keyboards.

How to use DAW Software?

Here is a step by step process on how to use DAW software:

• Step 1) Download any DAW software you like from the above-given list
• Step 2) Install the DAW software on your system
• Step 3) Once installed, open the DAW software on your computer
• Step 4) Go to File>New or press Ctrl+N to create a new project
• Step 5) Now go to File>Import>Audio to add any audio file to your project
• Step 6) Apply any effect on the audio using given tools within the DAW software
• Step 7) Now, go to File>Save or press Ctrl+S to save your project to open and work in future

Verdict

In this review, you got acquainted with some of the best free DAW software for Windows. Each tool brings its strengths to the table, and after careful evaluation, I have created this verdict to help you choose the ideal DAW for your needs.

• Adobe Audition stands out as a top choice for professionals, offering an intuitive interface with powerful editing tools that are suitable for both beginners and experts.
• FL Studio is a great fit for music producers, providing a robust platform with great features for music creation and powerful MIDI support.
• Avid Pro Tools remains the industry standard, offering excellent audio editing features with a user-friendly interface, ideal for both professionals and hobbyists.