Audacity vs REAPER
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Audacity and REAPER are credible ai audio tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Audacity if you want a lower starting price (free) and a free plan to start on. Free open-source audio editor.
Choose REAPER if you'd rather have a longer free trial (60 days) and a higher overall rating (4.7/5). Affordable pro digital audio workstation.
Audacity vs REAPER: side by side
| Dimension | Audacity | REAPER |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | FreeWinner | From $60 once |
| Free plan | YesWinner | No |
| Free trial | — | 60 daysWinner |
| Pricing model | Open source | One-time |
| Best for | Podcasters, Musicians, Hobbyists | Audio Engineers, Podcasters, Musicians |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5Winner |
Audacity key facts
- Vendor
- Muse Group
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Podcasters, Musicians, Hobbyists
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2000
- Headquarters
- London, UK
REAPER key facts
- Vendor
- Cockos
- Pricing
- One-time — From $60 once
- Free tier
- Free trial (60 days)
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Audio Engineers, Podcasters, Musicians
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2006
- Headquarters
- Rosendale, New York
Frequently asked questions
Is Audacity better than REAPER?
Neither is universally better — REAPER edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Audacity or REAPER cheaper?
Audacity is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Audacity starts at free; REAPER starts at from $60 once.
Can Audacity replace REAPER?
Yes for most teams — both are ai audio tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.