Cockos
REAPER
Full-featured DAW for audio and MIDI recording, editing, and mixing.
VST3supportedAUsupportedAAXsupportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXsupported
Checked September 2026
REAPER vs Pro Tools (2026)
REAPER is best for budget-conscious producers who want a lightweight, fully featured DAW; Pro Tools is best for professional recording studios and post-production audio. REAPER starts at $60 one-time (discounted license) and Pro Tools at $9.99/mo (Artist).
$60once
Avid
Pro Tools
Professional DAW for recording, editing, and mixing used across the music and post-production industry.
VST3not supportedAUnot supportedAAXsupportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported
| REAPER | Pro Tools | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | budget-conscious producers who want a lightweight, fully featured DAW | professional recording studios and post-production audio |
| Starting price | $60 one-time (discounted license) | $9.99/mo (Artist) |
| Free version | No | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Formats | Standalone, VST3, AU, AAX | Standalone, AAX |
| OS | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS |
| Key features | Unlimited tracks, Flexible routing, Extensive scripting (ReaScript), Small install size, Customizable UI | Pro Tools Intro free tier for beginners, Tiered subscriptions: Artist, Studio, Ultimate, Industry-standard AAX plugin ecosystem, Advanced post-production/video scoring (Ultimate) |
| Developer | Cockos | Avid |
Questions people ask
REAPER starts at $60 one-time (discounted license); Pro Tools starts at $9.99/mo (Artist).
Unlimited tracks, Flexible routing, Extensive scripting (ReaScript), Small install size, Customizable UI.
Pro Tools Intro free tier for beginners, Tiered subscriptions: Artist, Studio, Ultimate, Industry-standard AAX plugin ecosystem, Advanced post-production/video scoring (Ultimate).