5 Totally Free DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) For Music Producers, Mix Engineers, Podcasters

Music producers, aspiring producers, singers, podcasters, and the like, we know you’re going to love this list.

We’ve put together a list of 5 Digital Audio Workstations (DAW) that are completely free and with the majority being able to track, record, edit, mix, and master music. Let’s just say, “Wow!”

If you’re looking for a DAW so that you can start making music right away without spending a dime, then this list is for you.

Here are 5 free DAWs on the market that are totally free. Be sure to forward this list to anyone you think would find this beneficial.

Cakewalk by Bandlab

Cakewalk is a name that has been around for a long time. It was first available in 1980’s as a MIDI music sequencer product for MS-DOS.

Over the years it went through many changes and was even once even called Cakewalk by Roland.

Today it is Cakewalk by Bandlab and is considered the most complete music production package. This DAW is based off the discontinued SONAR Platinum.

Cakewalk offers you the ability to compose, record, edit, mix, master and share your songs directly. Yes, it’s free.

In addition, this DAW is touch-enabled meaning it is compatible with touch devices and bluetooth midi.

Systems Supported
Windows 8.1 or Later (64-bit only)

https://www.bandlab.com/products/cakewalk?lang=en

Ableton Live 11 Lite

In order to use this product you will need a software serial number that came with a product (hardware) you have purchased like Arturia hardware/keyboard, M-Audio, etc.

Systems Supported
Windows 64-bit and macOS

https://www.ableton.com/en/products/live-lite/

MPC Beats by AKAI

MPC Beats is a beat-making software based on the legendary MPC. MPC Beats features only 8 instrument channels, over 80 audio FX plugins, VST/AU compatibility and the ability to record instruments or vocals with 2 stereo audio tracks.

Systems Supported
macOS 10.15.7 Catalina and Later
Windows 10, 11

https://www.akaipro.com/mpc-beats

LMMS (Opensource DAW)

LMMS (Linux Multimedia Studio) is a free free, cross-platform digital audio workstation that allows you to produce music, playback instruments, samples and plugins. It also comes bundled with ready-to-use content (effects, presets and VSTs). Doesn’t have audio recording.

Systems Supported
Windows, macOS and Linux.

https://lmms.io/

Waveform by Tracktion

Tracktion dubs Waveform as the world’s best, fully featured and completely unlimited free DAW for all music creators (singers, podcasters, churches, music producers, recording engineers, bands and more).

Could it be because it is cross-platform, has VST plugin support, video support (syncing for movies/animations), and compatibility with ReWire?

Waveform Free 12 just released!
Update:
Seems buggy with a demo mode box popping up although after clicking Unlock.
Get demo song during On-Boarding not downloading.

Systems Supported
macOS 10.11 or Later (64-bit Intel or Apple Silicon)
Windows 8, 10, 100
Ubuntu 18.04

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

BONUS

Ardour (Opensource DAW)

This is an open source software which is being collaborated on with a worldwide team of programmers, musicians, and professional recording engineers. Does have the option for supporting the development with subscriptions as low as $1.

Systems Supported
macOS, Windows and Linux

http://ardour.org/

COST OPTION
FL Studio has been the choice for many rap/hip-hop and (EDM) electronic music producers for over 20 years. If you want to try out FL Studio, they do offer an unlimited free trial with no time limitation. The drawback is that projects can be saved but can’t be opened again until FL Studio is purchased and unlocked.

FL Studio prices start at $99 and includes lifetime updates.

https://www.image-line.com/