Free, open-source hybrid synthesizer with extensive filters and a flexible modulation engine.
VST3supportedAUsupportedAAXnot supportedCLAPsupportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXsupported
Checked September 2026
Surge XT vs Serum 2 (2026)
Surge XT is best for budget-conscious producers wanting a fully free, open-source synth with pro-level features; Serum 2 is best for sound designers wanting deep wavetable synthesis and visual modulation. Surge XT starts at Free and Serum 2 at $249 one-time.
Advanced hybrid wavetable synthesizer with flexible effects and a built-in sequencer.
VST3supportedAUsupportedAAXsupportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported
| Surge XT | Serum 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | budget-conscious producers wanting a fully free, open-source synth with pro-level features | sound designers wanting deep wavetable synthesis and visual modulation |
| Starting price | Free | $249 one-time |
| Free version | Yes | No |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Formats | VST3, AU, CLAP, LV2, Standalone | VST3, AU, AAX |
| OS | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS |
| Key features | Hybrid synthesis engine, Extensive filter selection, Flexible modulation matrix, MPE and microtuning support, Open Sound Control support | Wavetable oscillators, Visual waveform editor, Flexible FX routing, Arpeggiator, Clip sequencer |
| Developer | Surge Synth Team | Xfer Records |
Questions people ask
Surge XT starts at Free; Serum 2 starts at $249 one-time.
Hybrid synthesis engine, Extensive filter selection, Flexible modulation matrix, MPE and microtuning support, Open Sound Control support.
Wavetable oscillators, Visual waveform editor, Flexible FX routing, Arpeggiator, Clip sequencer.