12 Best Free DAWs for Windows in 2025

Creating music is a passion for some, but many also take it up as a job. However, it can be difficult to find the right DAW to generate and edit music. For this reason, they look for a free DAW for Windows. This is because it's important for recording music, editing podcasts, and designing beats. The good thing is that you don't always have to pay for these DAWs, and we are sharing the best free DAWs that Windows users can use. Also, we are sharing extra tips to help you choose the right one!

Part 1: 12 Best Free DAWs for Windows

1. Cakewalk by BandLab

Cakewalk by BandLab is a powerful free DAW for Windows built for professional music creation. It features a sleek interface with next-gen tools like the Arranger Track, Lyrics Editor, and advanced MIDI editing. You can build complex projects using unlimited tracks, work with BandLab's cloud sounds, and enjoy precise control over recording and mixing through its 64-bit audio engine.

Pros

• ProChannel offers mix-ready EQ, compression, and tape simulation
• Fully supports ARA, VST3, and plugin load balancing
• Drag-and-drop workflow makes arranging fast and simple
• Includes project interchange with Cakewalk Next and Sonar
• Excellent stability for large studio projects
• Cons
• Windows-only (no macOS version available)
• Needs a strong computer for best performance

2. Tracktion Waveform Free

Tracktion Waveform Free is a creative free DAW software for Windows with a fresh, modern interface built for all kinds of musicians. It comes with 14 audio effects, 8 MIDI effects, and four built-in instruments to jump-start your music. With flexible clip-based editing and support for third-party plugins, it gives you a smooth, efficient workspace for recording and producing songs with ease.

Pros

• Unlimited audio and MIDI tracks with no hidden limits
• Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, and even Raspberry Pi
• Supports VST, VST3, and AU plugins for full compatibility
• Expansion packs let you add more features as you grow
• Includes helpful video tutorials for quick learning

Cons

• Some advanced tools require paid expansions
• The interface may feel complex for absolute beginners

3. Audacity

Audacity is a trusted and best free audio workstation known for its simple design and powerful audio tools. It supports multi-track recording, real-time previews, and advanced features like spectrogram view and frequency analysis. The newest version adds AI-powered plugins for noise removal and music separation, making it a great choice for podcasts, voiceovers, and quick music edits without needing expensive software.

Pros

• Completely free and open source with active community support
• Works smoothly on Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Compatible with VST3, Nyquist, and other plugin types
• Fast audio editing with cut, copy, and automation tools
• Lightweight and runs well even on low-end PCs

Cons

• Lacks full MIDI and virtual instrument support
• Interface feels basic compared to newer DAWs

4. Ardour

Ardour is a professional-grade free digital audio workstation for Windows that gives you complete control over recording, editing, and mixing. It supports unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, video timeline editing, and advanced automation. Designed by musicians and engineers, Ardour's flexible routing system enables easy connection of instruments, effects, and external gear, making it ideal for film scoring, podcasts, and comprehensive studio projects.

Pros

• Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Supports multiple plugin types including VST2, VST3, LV2, and AU
• Detailed automation and track grouping tools
• Full video playback and sync support for soundtracks
• Open-source software with transparent development and updates

Cons

• Interface can feel technical for new users
• Direct download requires a small payment (or is free if built from source)

5. LMMS (Linux MultiMedia Studio)

LMMS is a free digital audio workstation made for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It lets users record melodies, arrange samples, and automate tracks easily. The software includes a Beat+Bassline Editor, Piano Roll, and automation tools for detailed music creation. LMMS also allows MIDI keyboard input and supports importing MIDI and Hydrogen project files.

Pros

• Includes 16 powerful built-in synthesizers and instruments
• Supports popular VST and LADSPA plugin formats
• Compatible with SoundFont and Giga instrument libraries
• Provides many built-in effects like reverb and delay
• Offers a spectrum analyzer for precise sound visualization

Cons

• Some VST plugins crash or fail to load
• Interface design looks outdated compared to modern DAWs

6. SoundBridge

SoundBridge is a free, cross-platform digital audio workstation built for Mac and PC. It offers professional tools like 192kHz recording, floating-point resolution, full MIDI and audio routing, and complete VST support. The interface is clean, customizable, and distraction-free, helping musicians focus on creativity. SoundBridge also supports cinema-grade film scoring, unlimited hardware I/O, and lifetime updates for all users.

Pros

• Smooth workflow that helps boost creative focus
• Excellent drum machine plugin called RitMix included
• Simple arpeggiator plugin reChord enhances melody creation
• Comes with many high-quality built-in effects

Cons

• Lacks advanced editing tools found in premium DAWs
• Limited third-party plugin compatibility in some cases

7. Reaper (Free Trial)

REAPER is a full digital audio workstation for Windows, macOS, and Linux that lets users record, edit, mix, and master both audio and MIDI. It supports many plugin formats, up to 128 channels per track, and advanced routing options. With fast performance, low system load, and a flexible design, REAPER offers professional-grade tools at an affordable price for creators of all levels.

Pros

• Razor Edits make precise track editing very simple
• Retroactive MIDI recording captures ideas after performance
• Supports LV2, CLAP, VST3, and AU plugin types
• The Track Lanes feature helps organize multiple takes easily

Cons

• The interface looks plain compared to modern DAWs
• Beginners may find deep features overwhelming initially

8. Akai MPC Beats

MPC Beats is a free beat-making DAW from Akai Professional, built on the classic MPC workflow. It includes 16 drum pads, a piano roll for MIDI recording, and a sample editor for chopping and arranging sounds. With built-in instruments, genre templates, and over 2GB of samples and loops, it gives beginners and producers everything needed to make professional-sounding tracks easily.

Pros

• Works smoothly with most USB MIDI controllers
• Includes over 80 high-quality audio effect plugins
• Supports VST and AU third-party plugin formats
• Allows two stereo tracks for recording live vocals

Cons

• Limited audio tracks compared to full MPC software
• Interface may feel cramped on smaller screens

9. Serato Studio (Free Basic Version)

Serato Studio is a fast and easy DAW made for modern beat makers. It lets you chop samples, separate stems, and build full songs with scenes and loops. You can sync project tempo, play in key, and record vocals directly. With built-in instruments, automation tools, and 42 high-quality effects, Serato Studio helps you turn ideas into songs quickly and creatively.

Pros

• Stem separation extracts vocals, drums, and melodies
• Over 190 built-in instruments for full production
• Step sequencer makes programming drums super easy
• Auto Chords feature speeds up songwriting and harmony
• Works smoothly with MIDI keyboards and controllers

Cons

• The free trial has limited export and saving options
• Requires a strong computer for smooth stem separation

10. Podium Free

Podium Free by Zynewave is a lightweight digital audio workstation for Windows that combines audio recording, MIDI sequencing, and VST plugin support. It uses an object-based project structure for flexible media organization and external device control. Even with some feature limits, it delivers smooth performance, clean visuals, and a stable workflow, making it one of the best free options for beginner producers on older computers.

Pros

• Beautiful and easy-to-navigate drum editor interface
• Runs efficiently even on older or weaker PCs
• Supports unlimited tracks for audio and MIDI projects
• Simple installation and minimal system requirements overall

Cons

• Uses only one CPU core for plugin processing
• Lacks ReWire and surround-sound playback features

11. Ohm Studio

Ohm Studio is a free Windows DAW software designed for real-time online collaboration. Created by Ohm Force, it lets musicians around the world work on the same project together. The software includes audio and MIDI editing, mixing tools, and plugin support. With built-in chat, project sharing, and community features, Ohm Studio combines powerful production tools with true social music-making.

Pros

• Real-time collaboration with users across the world
• Free cloud storage for up to 200 projects
• Supports audio and MIDI recording and editing
• Built-in chat and messaging for team communication
• Includes compressors, EQs, and modular plugin routing

Cons

• The interface can feel crowded with too many controls
• Relies heavily on stable internet for collaboration

12. Soundtrap

Soundtrap is an online digital audio workstation by Spotify that makes music production simple and collaborative. It runs directly in your browser, letting you record vocals, make beats, and mix tracks from any device. Soundtrap includes royalty-free sounds, built-in instruments, and cloud-based auto-saving. With real-time video and chat collaboration, you can create songs with anyone, anywhere in the world.

Pros

• Works directly in browsers, no installation required
• Offers 24,000+ loops from many modern genres
• Supports real-time video and text collaboration features
• Includes beatmaker and vocal pitch correction tools

Cons

• Some advanced tools require a paid subscription
• Internet lag can affect live collaboration sessions.

Part 2: Tips for Choosing a Free DAW for Windows

Define Your Purpose

Think about what you intend to do: record live instruments and vocals, compose electronic music, produce beats, edit podcasts, or mix large sessions.

• For recording & mixing → Cakewalk by BandLab, Reaper (trial) are strong options
• For beat making / sample-based work → Akai MPC Beats, Serato Studio
• For electronic music / synth-based workflows → LMMS, Waveform Free

Check Plugin Compatibility (VST Support)

A good free DAW should support VST (and ideally VST3). All of the DAWs listed above support VST, except that in some DAWs, certain plugin formats or advanced modules may be locked in paid versions (e.g., Waveform Free, Podium Free).

Look for Unlimited Tracks

Limitations on track count can severely hamper larger projects. Many free DAWs (Cakewalk, Waveform Free) provide unlimited audio and MIDI tracks. Others (or their free tiers) may limit the number of tracks or features (e.g., Serato Studio free version, Podium Free).

Evaluate System Performance

A DAW with a lightweight engine and good optimization will run smoothly even on modest hardware. DAWs like Audacity, LMMS, and Reaper are known for good performance. On the other hand, feature-heavy DAWs (Cakewalk, Waveform) may require a stronger CPU, RAM, and fast drives.

Test Workflow and Interface

The best DAW is often the one whose workflow "feels" right for you. Try a few and see which UI, keyboard shortcuts, track layout, editing style, and mixer layout you prefer. Also consider how easy it is to learn, find functions, and integrate plugins.

Part 3: FAQs About Free DAW for Windows

1. Which is the best free DAW?

There's no one-size-fits-all. For full-featured production, Cakewalk by BandLab and Waveform Free are often considered top picks. For simplicity, Audacity or LMMS may serve better. The "best" depends on your use case, hardware, and preferences.

2. Is a free DAW good enough?

Yes, many free DAWs today provide features that rival paid ones. For many producers, the limitations (e.g., fewer built-in instruments or locked modules) are not a showstopper. You can always supplement with free or paid plugins later.

3. What is the best free DAW for Windows 11?

All of the DAWs in this list are compatible with Windows 10 and 11. For Windows 11 users, Cakewalk, Waveform Free, and Reaper (in trial) are widely used and stable.

4. Is FL Studio a free DAW?

Not exactly. FL Studio offers a trial version with limited export functionality, but it is not fully free. You must purchase a license to unlock full functionality.

Conclusion

Finding the right free DAW for Windows has never been easier. Whether you're an aspiring musician, a podcaster, or a seasoned producer, there's a DAW that fits your creative workflow and technical needs. From the professional-grade capabilities of Cakewalk by BandLab and Tracktion Waveform Free to beginner-friendly options like LMMS or Audacity, each offers unique strengths. This is because some excel at beat production and others at recording or live performance integration. When combined with modern hardware and creative plugins, these free DAWs can easily rival paid versions. And, if you're creating visuals, pairing your setup with the OBSBOT Tail 2 adds cinematic quality to your music videos and live streams.