Incredible music. In the key of easy.
VST3not supportedAUsupportedAAXnot supportedCLAPnot supportedWINnot supportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported+ iOS · iPadOS
Checked September 2026
GarageBand vs Pro Tools (2026)
GarageBand is best for beginners making music free on mac or iphone/ipad; Pro Tools is best for professional recording studios and post-production audio. GarageBand starts at Free and Pro Tools at $9.99/mo (Artist).
Avid
Pro Tools
Professional DAW for recording, editing, and mixing used across the music and post-production industry.
VST3not supportedAUnot supportedAAXsupportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported
| GarageBand | Pro Tools | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | beginners making music free on mac or iphone/ipad | professional recording studios and post-production audio |
| Starting price | Free | $9.99/mo (Artist) |
| Free version | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Formats | Standalone, AU | Standalone, AAX |
| OS | macOS, iOS, iPadOS | Windows, macOS |
| Key features | Up to 255 audio tracks, Session/virtual drummers across 6 genres, Guitar and bass amp simulation, Built-in piano and guitar lessons, Flex Time rhythm correction | Pro Tools Intro free tier for beginners, Tiered subscriptions: Artist, Studio, Ultimate, Industry-standard AAX plugin ecosystem, Advanced post-production/video scoring (Ultimate) |
| Developer | Apple | Avid |
Questions people ask
GarageBand starts at Free; Pro Tools starts at $9.99/mo (Artist).
Up to 255 audio tracks, Session/virtual drummers across 6 genres, Guitar and bass amp simulation, Built-in piano and guitar lessons, Flex Time rhythm correction.
Pro Tools Intro free tier for beginners, Tiered subscriptions: Artist, Studio, Ultimate, Industry-standard AAX plugin ecosystem, Advanced post-production/video scoring (Ultimate).