Side by side
DrumComputer vs Hydrogen
Both stand on drum machine software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial iPhoneMacWindows
DrumComputer combines synthesis, sample import, and detailed sequencing across desktop and iPad versions. The demo has saving and export limits, while the full version is a one-time purchase.
Visit DrumComputer Free plan APILinuxMac+1
Hydrogen combines pattern sequencing, sample editing, and MIDI support in a free desktop tool. Check the listed OS requirements and the lack of a planned LV2 plugin before choosing it.
Visit HydrogenThe facts
| DrumComputer | Hydrogen | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone, Mac, Windows | API, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | DrumComputer: $129, paid once | Not published |
| Plans published | 1 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | sugar-bytes.de | hydrogen-music.org |
| On drum machine software | #6 of 30 | #2 of 30 |
DrumComputer: what it does well
- Eight sound engines combine several synthesis and sample methods.
- Sequencer includes probability, swing, and pattern generation.
- Desktop version supports MIDI file drag and drop.
- iPad version supports standalone and AUv3 operation.
- Includes more than 400 global and 450 engine presets.
What to know first
- Full version costs 129.00 USD once.
- Demo disables saving and export.
- iPad version requires iPadOS 17.6 or later.
- Claude Desktop extension requires the full version.
Hydrogen: what it does well
- Free and distributed under GPLv2+.
- Unlimited patterns can be chained into songs.
- Imports WAV, AU, AIFF, and FLAC samples.
- Exports audio, MIDI, and LilyPond formats.
- Supports four audio driver systems.
What to know first
- No current plans for an LV2 plugin version.
- Listed macOS download requires version 10.14 or later.
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